The global push towards a sustainable energy future is creating millions of new "green jobs," but this rapid growth is also creating a significant skills gap. To meet the soaring demand for qualified professionals, traditional training methods are not enough. Modern, well-structured apprenticeship models are emerging as the most effective solution for building a skilled and adaptable workforce. By combining hands-on, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, these programs provide a clear career pathway for a new generation of technicians, engineers, and project managers, ensuring the industry has the talent it needs to innovate and scale.

This program provides a comprehensive and practical guide to designing, implementing, and managing successful apprenticeship models tailored for the renewable energy sector. Participants will gain a fundamental understanding of how to conduct a needs assessment, develop a robust curriculum that aligns with industry standards, and navigate the complexities of program funding and policy. The course will cover everything from best practices for recruitment and mentorship to the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern apprenticeships. By focusing on real-world case studies and collaborative exercises, attendees will be equipped to build and sustain a strong workforce development pipeline that not only supports their organization but also contributes to a more equitable and resilient energy transition.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• HR and Workforce Development Managers
• Training and Development Coordinators
• Energy and Utility Executives
• Government and Policy Analysts
• Vocational and Technical Educators
• Labor Union Representatives
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Professionals
• Renewable Energy Project Developers
• Industry Association Leaders
• Community and Economic Development Specialists

Objectives:

• Master the core principles of modern apprenticeship models for the clean energy sector.
• Learn how to conduct a comprehensive workforce needs and skills gap analysis.
• Understand the key components of a successful apprenticeship program.
• Grasp the complexities of curriculum development and industry-recognized certifications.
• Develop proficiency in identifying and securing funding for apprenticeship programs.
• Explore best practices for mentorship and on-the-job training.
• Learn about robust approaches to recruitment, diversity, and inclusion.
• Identify the critical legal and regulatory frameworks governing apprenticeships.
• Develop skills in program evaluation and measuring return on investment.
• Formulate strategies for building sustainable public-private partnerships.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Foundations of Workforce Development

• The importance of a skilled workforce for the energy transition
• The green jobs economy and labor market trends
• The role of apprenticeship models in bridging the skills gap
• Overview of different apprenticeship structures (e.g., registered, pre-apprenticeship)
• The business case for investing in workforce development

Module 2: Needs Assessment and Job Analysis

• Conducting a labor market and skills gap analysis
• Identifying in-demand occupations in renewable energy
• Breaking down job roles and creating competency profiles
• The importance of a clear and focused research question
• Aligning training programs with industry needs

Module 3: Program Design and Structure

• Designing a modular and flexible apprenticeship program
• Defining learning objectives and performance outcomes
• The blend of on-the-job training and related technical instruction
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style
• Creating a career pathway with opportunities for advancement

Module 4: Curriculum Development

• Mapping curriculum to industry standards and certifications
• Integrating safety, codes, and technical skills
• The role of soft skills and professional development
• The use of hands-on labs and simulations
• Developing assessment and evaluation methods

Module 5: Recruitment and Selection

• Attracting a diverse and qualified pool of candidates
• Outreach strategies and community partnerships
• The role of pre-apprenticeship programs
• The importance of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Navigating the application and selection process

Module 6: Mentorship and On-the-Job Training

• The role of the mentor in an apprenticeship model
• Developing a structured mentorship program
• Providing effective on-the-job instruction and feedback
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• Performance tracking and progress monitoring

Module 7: Funding and Financial Models

• The financial benefits for employers and apprentices
• Exploring public funding sources (e.g., government grants, tax credits)
• The role of private and philanthropic funding
• Building a sustainable financial model for a program
• The importance of a clear and compelling KPI

Module 8: Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

• The importance of legal contracts and agreements
• Navigating local, national, and international regulations
• The role of industry standards and certifications
• Compliance and reporting requirements
• Best practices for ensuring a safe work environment

Module 9: Partnerships and Collaboration

• Building effective public-private partnerships
• Collaborating with educational institutions and training centers
• The role of labor unions and industry associations
• Creating a stakeholder ecosystem
• The importance of a "stakeholder analysis"

Module 10: Program Management and Administration

• The administrative responsibilities of a program manager
• Managing data, records, and reporting
• Communication and stakeholder engagement
• The role of a "data story map"
• Developing a program handbook

Module 11: Program Evaluation

• The importance of measuring program effectiveness
• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for apprenticeships
• Conducting a return on investment (ROI) analysis
• The role of a program's theory of change
• Using feedback to continuously improve the program

Module 12: Scaling and Expansion

• Strategies for scaling a successful program
• The role of technology in program management
• Expanding to new regions or technologies
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style
• Addressing workforce challenges at a regional level

Module 13: Case Studies

• Case study: A successful solar installer apprenticeship model
• Case study: An advanced wind turbine technician program
• Case study: A utility-led apprenticeship initiative
• Lessons learned from the field
• The role of a clear and focused research question

Module 14: Technology and Innovation

• The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in training
• The role of learning management systems (LMS)
• Data analytics for program optimization
• The importance of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Training for new and emerging technologies

Module 15: Policy and Advocacy

• The role of policymakers in supporting apprenticeships
• Advocating for supportive legislation and funding
• Building a coalition for workforce development
• The importance of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• International best practices in apprenticeship policy

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.