Section 2: Training Programs
The Federal OJT Program has been designed to ensure that the trainee consistently receives the level and quality of training necessary to perform as a journeyworker in his/her respective skilled trade classification. Standard training programs for each skilled construction trade classification were developed jointly by the Department, Associated General Contractors, construction industry representatives, and others.
The approved training programs are listed in Appendix B.
Each training program details the training curriculum that should be provided to the trainee and the number of hours in each classification code. The training curriculum serves as a general guideline.
As contractors expect different things from their employees, it is the contractor’s decision how to handle training and when to graduate a trainee from the program. Keep in mind, however, that the hours listed are a maximum, and a trainee shall not be kept in the training program for longer than the maximum number of hours listed.
Another skilled or semi-skilled craft training program may be proposed for use in fulfilling a contractor’s OJT requirements, based on its company workforce needs. Approval or acceptance of a training program shall be obtained from the Department prior to commencing work on the classification covered by the program.
A written request detailing the reason for the proposed training program should be forwarded to CIV along with a copy of the training program.
It is the intention of 23 CFR Part 230 Appendix B of Subpart A that training is to be provided in the construction crafts rather than clerk-typists or secretarial-type positions. Training is permissible in lower level management positions such as office engineers, estimators, timekeepers, etc., where the training is oriented toward construction applications. Training in the laborer classification may be permitted provided that significant and meaningful training is provided and approved by the FHWA division office. Some offsite training is permissible as long as the training is an integral part of an approved training program and does not comprise a significant part of the overall training. Apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, or with a State apprenticeship agency recognized by the Bureau, or training programs approved but not necessarily sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Manpower Administration, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training shall be considered acceptable provided the program is being administered in a manner consistent with the equal employment obligations of Federal-aid highway construction contracts.