SHRM is launching an HR apprenticeship program this year.  Beginning in 2021, through a three-year Department of Labor grant, SHRM Foundation’s Human Resource Registered Apprenticeship Program (HR RAP) will help you:

• Prepare Employees for Challenges of the 21st Century Workplace
• Create Opportunities for a Diverse Workforce
• Provide Talent to Create Returns to Your Business Operations

Powered by SHRM’s globally recognized competency-based certification program, the HR RAP will develop apprentices for the HR Specialist role through a “learn and earn" experience. Apprentices will be prepared to earn the SHRM-Certified Professional credential, giving them the skills they need to deliver results to your organization and an opportunity to progress in an established career path. The benefits to employers include: 

IMPROVED PRODUCTIVITY, CUSTOMIZED TRAINING, INCREASED RETENTION, and a DIVERSIFIED TALENT POOL.

With the HR RAP, you offer an apprentice: 

• A Paid Job
• Mentorship
• On-the-Job Learning
• Classroom Learning
• The SHRM-CP Credential

Apprenticeships are a career path to many white-collar professions NOT just unions and the trades.  Apprenticeship works for any program that is skill-based and can be supported by experiential learning.  Apprenticeships are growing in non-trade industries such as IT, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, insurance, and hospitality.  The resources spent are an investment in an employee which will result in higher productivity and lower recruitment costs, NOT just an expense.  Employers can reduce costs by partnering with other employers and the public works system.  Educational institutions and community organizations can offset education and training costs.  There is no minimum size for employers. This is NOT just a program for large employers.  Apprenticeship is ideal for any position that benefits from on-the-job learning and where there is a committed mentor.  It’s useful for positions where employers are faced with high turnover.

The SHRM Foundation will be your partner and provide resources needed to establish a registered apprenticeship program including:

• Providing a SHRM-designed, Department of Labor registered program to give an apprentice the skills and competencies required to be an HR Specialist
• Guidance on how to tailor the course work and on-the-job learning to meet your needs
• Recommended educational institutions to provide the classroom learning
• Resources for assuring apprenticeship success
• Assistance in completing all required paperwork

Would your organization be interested in participating?  Sign up to obtain more information at SHRM Foundation | HR Apprenticeship Program (bottom of page).