Overview
  • Overview
  • Part 1: Introduction
  • What Are Registered Apprenticeship Programs?
  • What Are National Occupational Frameworks?
  • What Is the Value of the Frameworks?
  • How Are the Frameworks Created?
  • Part 2: Using National Occupational Frameworks
  • Step 1: Prepare to Use a Framework
  • Step 2: Map Major Job Functions and Competencies
  • Step 3: Build the Related Technical Instruction
  • Next Steps for Program Development and Registration
  • Part 3: Getting Started
  • About the Guide
    • How Are the Frameworks Created?

    To learn more about how the frameworks are created, read Creating a Gold-Standard National Occupational Standards Development System.

    The NOFs are created through a process that involves identifying occupations for the frameworks, conducting extensive research on the occupations, vetting the frameworks with experts, and submitting to DOL for review.

    Identifying Occupations for NOFs

    The Urban Institute collaborates with the DOL to identify the occupations for NOFs. They are selected using labor market information to identify occupations with significant demand, prioritizing occupations and nontraditional industries and occupations for apprenticeship programs.

    Researching Occupations

    Urban researchers conduct extensive research on the identified occupations. This research uses government websites, such as O*NET and apprenticeship.gov. Other research includes occupational- and sector-specific information sources, such as industry associations or credentialing agencies, union websites, and job postings on major employment websites for newer or less-documented occupations.

    Vetting with Experts

    Once the initial drafts are complete, a diverse representation of 7–9 experts for the occupation vet the frameworks. These experts review the frameworks and provide feedback on how the occupation is represented, particularly on the WPS and RTI outline. This vetting ensures that the frameworks are relevant and responsive to the needs of the field and best represent the occupation as a whole.

    Approving and Releasing NOFs

    Lastly, Urban submits the completed frameworks to the DOL for review and approval. Once this is complete, Urban releases them on its website.