The U.S. Department of Labor has approved ANAB as a Standards Recognition Entity (SRE). SREs evaluate and recognize IRAPs consistent with the Department’s rigorous standards. The IRAP model connects career-seekers in a variety of industries with paid job training programs to attain necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities. In addition, the IRAP model connects employers with highly trained workers, creating a viable talent pool.

ANAB was approved by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship as a Standards Recognition Entity (SRE) in September 2020. With this prestigious recognition, ANAB can now recognize Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs (IRAPs) pursuant to the Department of Labor’s high standards.

History of Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs

To address the growing skills gap and rapidly increase the availability of high-quality employees in America, an Executive Order titled Expanding Apprenticeships in America was issued June 15, 2017. The Department of Labor followed suit and on March 11, 2020, issued the Final Rule that established a system for advancing the development of high-quality IRAPs and promoting the development of apprenticeship programs in a wide range of industries. The Department of Labor also laid a framework to qualify third parties to recognize and ensure that the apprenticeship programs meet quality standards. As a global leader in credentialing accreditation, ANAB sought to build on its extensive expertise and offer a quality recognition process for apprenticeship programs.

Defining Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs

According to the Department of Labor, IRAPs provide individuals with opportunities to obtain workplace-relevant knowledge and progressively advancing skills. IRAPs include a paid-work component and an educational component and result in an industry-recognized credential. IRAPs are developed or delivered by entities such as trade and industry groups, corporations, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, unions, and joint labor-management organizations.

Scope of the ANAB IRAP

ANAB's recognition applies within the following industries, occupations, and geographic locations:

  • Industries: Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting; mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction; utilities; manufacturing; wholesale trade; retail trade; transportation and warehousing; information; finance and insurance; real estate and rental and leasing; professional, scientific, and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; administrative and support and waste management and remediation services; educational services; health care and social assistance; arts, entertainment, and recreation; accommodation and food services; other services; and public administration.
  • Occupations: Facilities management, supply chain managers, risk management specialists, human resources managers, strategic planning, marketing managers, environmental services, and volunteer services.
  • Geographic Location: National.

Contact Information

If you have questions, please contact:

Evelyn Nash

Manager of Accreditation, Credentialing Programs

enash@anab.org

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