The Department of Labor has finalized its rule on apprenticeship programs by creating a system which will enable the development of Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs (IRAPs). IRAPs are apprenticeship programs that are recognized as high-quality by a third-party. Such programs allow individuals to gain relevant training and skills while being compensated. Apprenticeships are an effective means of training workers for skilled labor positions. The new rule will allow employers and educators to rapidly increase the number of apprenticeships in sectors where such programs are currently unavailable.
See "Department of Labor publishes apprenticeship rule ", Karl D. Forth , Woodworking Network , March 10, 2020