Apprenticeship Through the TAA Program

On July 1, 2022, the termination provision under Section 285(a) of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended, took effect. Until further notice, the US Labor Department may not issue any determinations and may not accept any new petitions or requests for reconsideration. Requests to amend current certifications may still be filed. Current participants in the TAA program, including those in training, will continue to receive services as usual. Workers who were certified and separated from their job on or before June 30, 2022, may still be eligible for benefits and services. See TEGL 13-21 for more details.

Apprenticeship Through the TAA Program

In appropriate circumstances, the Trade Adjustment Assistance Program (TAA) represents another funding vehicle to support apprenticeship. To understand “supporting apprenticeship using TAA funding,” it may be helpful to first look at the basic components of an apprenticeship program. Specifically, apprenticeship is an “earn and learn” training model that combines work-based training with related class instruction using the highest industry standards.

The following sections explain how TAA funding can support core apprenticeship components.

On-the-Job Training (OJT)

TAA funds can be used to reimburse the employer for costs of training. Reimbursement is based on the wage rate of the participant and can be up to 50% of that wage in some circumstances. If the TAA participant is co-enrolled with WIOA, local workforce development boards (LWDB) may choose to use WIOA funds to reimburse an additional 25% of the training costs, totaling up to 75% of wages.

Related Training & Instruction (RTI)

TAA funds can be used to support the related instruction component of an apprenticeship program. Training funds can also cover supplies, books, equipment, and, in some cases, reimbursement of transportation costs. If the TAA participant is co-enrolled with WIOA, LWDBs may choose to use WIOA funds to provide additional supportive services not covered by TAA funds, such as child care.

Additional Income Support

RTAA or Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance is an employment-based benefit for qualifying workers aged 50+ who are earning less than $50,000 per year in their new employment. RTAA payments may total 50% of the difference between wages in previous vs. new employment, with a maximum of $10,000 paid over two years.