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Apprenticeships in Clean Energy

Our Energy Specialist Apprenticeship Program helps expand the clean energy workforce and build a pipeline of highly qualified and diverse talent.


What is a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)?

A Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience and a nationally recognized credential.

RAPs are validated to meet the standards defined by the U.S. Department of Labor and a State Apprenticeship Agency.

Diversity and inclusion are built into the apprenticeship model. Apprenticeship regulations ensure that accessibility, equity, and inclusion principles are embedded in RAPs through strong non-discrimination and anti-harassment recruitment practices.

BPA's Energy Specialist Apprenticeship

As an apprenticeship sponsor designated by the The Apprenticeships in Clean Energy (ACE) Network, BPA assists employers in setting up apprenticeship programs and registering them with the U.S. Department of Labor.

BPA takes on the responsibility of designing and executing apprenticeship programs, providing jobs to apprentices, overseeing training development, and providing hands-on learning and technical instruction for apprentices. To support these efforts, BPA has developed an Energy Specialist Apprenticeship Program model that employers can adopt and customize to fit their needs.

If you are interested in learning more about BPA's Energy Specialist Apprenticeship, contact Brook Vernon, Workforce Development Programs Manager, at bvernon@building-performance.org.

RAPs BENEFITS FOR
Employers

  • Reduces employee turnover
  • Increases productivity
  • Improves safety
  • Creates a pipeline of qualified employees
  • Meets licensing requirements
  • Covers costs through tax credits and grants

 

RAPs BENEFITS FOR
Apprentices

  • Earn an income while working on a career pathway
  • Obtain skills and knowledge
  • Work alongside a skilled mentor
  • Receive a nationally recognized credential upon program completion

Which one are you?

Select the box that best describes you for more information.

Photo of a man on the job talking to a homeowner

I WANT TO
Become an Apprentice 

You're ready to take the next step to a career in energy efficiency

Group of home performance workers standing in a circle with their hands in the air

I AM AN
Employer

You want to train new apprentices

A tutor teaches his class about renewable energy in an engineering workshop. They are all wearing protective eyewear and blue coveralls.

I WORK IN 
Workforce Development

You want to engage with a Registered Apprenticeship Program

NOVEMBER 17 - 23, 2024
National Apprenticeship Week

This year, BPA celebrates the 10th anniversary of National Apprenticeship Week!

2024's theme, 10 Years of Engagement, Expansion, and Innovation, highlights a decade of success in creating career pathways, fostering workforce diversity, and meeting critical industry needs. With initiatives like the Energy Specialist Apprenticeship Program and partnerships through the Apprenticeships in Clean Energy (ACE) Network, BPA remains committed to supporting employers, expanding opportunities for underrepresented communities, and shaping a sustainable, skilled workforce for the future of clean energy.

Check out our blog post to learn how we're raising awareness of clean energy apprenticeship programs and how they are shaping a bright future for the industry.

Plus, catch us at the Southeast Energy Summit Nov. 20 - 22, 2024 to discuss how you can get involved with RAPs!

Read our NAW Proclamation here!