Using the documentation gathered for the job role in step 1, map that information to the job functions and competencies in the framework. The work process schedule (WPS) section of the framework describes the major job functions and competencies that the apprentice will need to demonstrate to be fully qualified for employment in the job role. Once this mapping is complete, next, determine the apprenticeship approach.

Conduct the Mapping Process

• Compare the major job functions in the framework with the job description and job-specific reference materials to check for alignment. Many employers ask an established worker or professional in the occupation to review the framework. Because the industry has vetted this framework, removing job functions should not be necessary.
• Review the competencies within the major job functions to check for alignment with the competencies needed for the job role. Cross off any optional competencies that do not apply to the job role and add any missing job tasks or competencies. Some sponsors and employers may also change the order of how the competencies are listed to fit the job role best. Pay special attention to core versus optional competencies. Core competencies were deliberately noted as such by industry experts, and organizations should include them in all apprenticeship programs for the occupation.

Determine the Apprenticeship Approach

Apprenticeships can take a competency-based, time-based, or hybrid approach. Although the frameworks are primarily competency-based, they note hybrid hour ranges where applicable, and organizations can adopt the frameworks to accommodate any of the three approaches.

• A competency-based approach measures skills based on successfully demonstrating and evaluating an identified set of competencies. Apprentices do not have to complete a required number of on-the-job training hours (unless specified by a registration agency). All registered apprenticeship programs last at least 12 months.
• A time-based approach measures skills based on completing a predetermined number of hours of on-the-job training. For a time-based program, the hours for each major job function are included in the WPS and add up to the total duration of the apprenticeship.
• A hybrid approach measures skills based on completing on-the-job training hours and successfully demonstrating identified competencies. For a hybrid program, the WPS includes a range of hours that apprentices should spend working on each major job function.

Organizations will need to add hours into the WPS if a time-based or hybrid approach is selected. The frameworks will indicate a minimum and maximum range of hours for the hybrid approach to assist with this determination. The NOF includes more information on utilizing and adapting the WPS for all three approaches.