Client:
Jobs for the Future / U.S. Department of Labor
Sector:
Federal / Workforce Development
Challenge:
Despite growing national interest in Registered Apprenticeships (RAs), systemic barriers continue to limit access for historically underrepresented populations. Jobs for the Future (JFF), as part of its commitment to transform the American workforce system, sought a strategic partner to expand equitable access to RAs in manufacturing and agriculture. Through two U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) grants—the Registered Apprenticeship Technical Assistance (TA) Center of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion, and the Industry Intermediary Contract (IIC) program—JFF aimed to drive large-scale adoption of inclusive apprenticeship practices, while also ensuring employers met federal compliance standards for Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action.
IP’s Role:
Intelligent Partnerships (IP) served as a key strategic and implementation partner to JFF under both grant programs. Our work included:
- Delivering tailored technical assistance to employers and industry groups nationwide
- Advising on equity-aligned workforce strategies, from RA program design through registration
- Developing Affirmative Action Plans (AAPs) and EEO compliance documentation for apprenticeship sponsors
- Producing accessible digital toolkits, eBooks, and compliance one-pagers
- Leading webinars and national conference sessions on best practices
- Administering incentive funds (up to $30,000 per employer) to scale RA programs in manufacturing and agriculture
This work required a deep understanding of federal apprenticeship policy, change management practices, and field-level implementation tactics that resonate with employers and industry associations.
Pillars Delivered:
- Advisory Services: Strategic guidance on equity compliance, workforce integration, and stakeholder alignment
- Technology Integration: Development of digital TA resources and compliance automation tools
- Compliance Delivery: Design of AAPs, equity scorecards, and audit-ready documentation
Outcomes:
IP’s impact under these grants has been both broad and deep:
- TA delivered to over 30 manufacturing and agricultural employers
- Multiple new RA programs registered with embedded equity frameworks
- Dozens of Affirmative Action Plans and EEO compliance strategies developed
- National training sessions delivered on Title 29 CFR Part 30, braided funding, and sustainability planning
- Administered incentive funding to eligible programs, accelerating RAP adoption
Through this work, Intelligent Partnerships helped JFF and USDOL make meaningful progress toward national equity goals in apprenticeship. Our approach not only strengthened compliance but also helped organizations embed equity in their long-term workforce strategies.
How Others Can Use This:
Public and private sector leaders seeking to launch or scale equitable RA programs can replicate this grant-supported model to align with federal standards while maximizing community and business impact.