Processes and outcomes of a 14-month apprenticeship learning community: Toolkit development and practice implications

Background Despite the prevailing view that apprenticeships offer many unique benefits to workers with disabilities, people with disabilities are vastly underrepresented in these programs. Objective This paper describes a 14-month apprenticeship learning community facilitated by the authors and the toolkit for practitioners and key stakeholders that it produced. Methods The learning community met 14 times as a large group over a 14-month period. During these meetings, facilitated by the authors, members shared problems, solutions, and insights related to apprenticeships, and actively worked towards creating the apprenticeship toolkit. Results The toolkit is a comprehensive manual for potential apprentices, their families, rehabilitation/vocational counselors, employers, and other stakeholders. It covers topics such as basic knowledge of apprenticeships, steps for entering, navigating, and completing an apprenticeship program, tips for successful interagency collaboration, and guidance on disability disclosure. Conclusion The learning community model successfully brings together people from diverse areas and backgrounds to brainstorm solutions to shared challenges. The toolkit is an effective resource for any worker or professional interested in apprenticeships. Implications for practice are provided.