Registered apprenticeships are an ideal solution for the mismatch between unfilled tech openings and talented workers who face challenges with traditional hiring processes. The Urban Institute served as a tech apprenticeship intermediary for three years, helping employers and sponsors design, register, and implement their programs. By working hands on and in partnership with employers, we documented what works in the field. 

Five major findings emerged from this work. First, incentive funding is an important motivator to encourage employers to register programs, particularly when funds are paid after apprentices have been hired and engaged in work. Second, the registration processes are complicated, so easing this burden on employers such as through the work of intermediaries is important for scaling the system. Third, many employers seek flexibility and customization in the programs they implement, which requires knowledgeable and skilled help to navigate them through this process. Fourth, awareness about registered apprenticeship is low, so sharing the evidence and best practices in the field is important for advancing high-quality programs. Finally, registered apprenticeships can build needed diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry. Supporting organizations that commit to this work is paramount.