IRAPs are a proposed training program structured to operate outside of the traditional registered apprenticeship model. There is, however, a provision in the proposed rule exempting the construction industry from creating IRAPs. This means that while other industries could use this new apprenticeship model, NECA’s training programs would not be impacted by this new proposal.
Without this important exemption, registered apprenticeship programs would likely be undercut by potentially unregulated and competing parallel programs that would hinder our ability to operate as world class institutions.
NECA is concerned that opponents of the exemption are working to limit, weaken, or even remove the provision altogether when the rule is finalized in the coming months.
It is imperative that all NECA contractors, their employees, NECA chapters, and NECA employees make their voices heard on or before August 26, 2019 to ensure this tentative exclusion does not fall through. We urge you to send in your comments on this issue TODAY.