The purpose of this Training and Employment Notice (TEN) is to: (i) describe the scope and characteristics of quality pre-apprenticeship programs in a manner that is consistent with the language of the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) in Apprenticeship Final Rule and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Final Rule; (ii) identify how pre-apprenticeship programs can increase access to Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) for all Americans, including those historically underrepresented and underserved in RAPs; and (iii) provide examples of quality pre-apprenticeship programs in diverse settings.  

This TEN rescinds and replaces the Employment and Training Administration’s (ETA) previous guidance on pre-apprenticeship programs, TEN No. 13-12, Defining a Quality Pre-Apprenticeship Program and Related Tools and Resources.  While ETA’s Office of Apprenticeship (OA) does not directly oversee or regulate pre-apprenticeship programs, OA recommends the elements outlined in this TEN, as they facilitate subsequent success in a RAP.  Additionally, while pre-apprenticeship programs are not subject to the EEO requirements of 29 CFR Part 30, which identifies specific actions for creating discrimination- and harassment-free apprenticeship processes and environments, incorporating the elements of that regulation into pre-apprenticeships may benefit RAP sponsors in meeting the applicable EEO requirements.