Dinapoli: Audit Highlights Opportunities For Improvement Of Apprenticeship Programs To Enhance Value And Reach

DOL Agrees to Enhancements in Access, Oversight and Data Accuracy

New York state’s over 900 registered apprenticeship programs provide thousands of people with paid, hands-on training in skilled, in-demand trades, ranging from information technology to health care. A new audit released by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli highlights the potential of these programs but found key areas for improvements at the Department of Labor (DOL) which oversees them.

“Apprenticeship programs open doors for many New York ers to access well-paid jobs that become careers, while helping businesses and unions train the workforce they need,” said DiNapoli. “My auditors identified where improvements are needed, and the Department of Labor’s planned response should lead to a speedier review of applications, strengthened monitoring of programs, improved apprenticeship data and expanded trade opportunities. I commend Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon and her team for their efforts in promoting New York’s apprenticeship programs.”

“We thank the Office of the State Comptroller for taking a close look at this important pro gram which provides a proven pathway to high-paying, in demand careers, and a skilled workforce for businesses,” said New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “We understand the importance of ensuring efficient use of every taxpayer dollar. I was glad to see the work we’re doing right now to modernize the Registered Apprenticeship program addresses many of the issues raised. The new online system will streamline applica tions, improve program over sight, and enhance data collec tion, reporting, and information sharing with both businesses and apprentices. This will ensure Registered Apprenticeships continue to evolve to meet the needs of New York’s economy and the workers who power it.”

“Apprenticeship programs are the gold standard for develop ing a safe, skilled and diverse workforce that’s ready to meet the demands of New York’s construction and infrastructure projects,” said Gary LaBarbera, President of the NYS Building & Construction Trades Council. “We appreciate State Comp troller DiNapoli’s efforts to strengthen oversight and ensure these programs remain accessible, accountable and focused on upward mobility for all New Yorkers.”

Registered apprenticeship pro grams offer a mix of classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training, typically lasting one to five years. The programs are generally offered at no cost to participants by employers and unions. Apprenticeships often lead to industry-recognized credentials in high-growth fields, including construction, health care, information technology and manufacturing.

Statewide Reach and Industry Growth

According to the audit, from April 2019 through August 2024:

• Programs operated in 58 of New York’s 62 counties, reaching nearly 40,000 participants.

• There were 905 registered programs across 163 trades, from electrician to machinist to sheet metal worker to skilled construction laborer, as of August 2024.

• DOL has made efforts to expand apprenticeships into new sectors, including information technology, health care, agricul ture, hospitality and advanced manufacturing.

Employers may also benefit through the Empire State Apprenticeship Tax Credit (ESATC), which provides refund able tax credits against New York state income or franchise tax to eligible employers with an approved program.

Audit Recommends Improvements

The audit recommends several important changes at DOL to improve efficiency, oversight and data integrity. According to DOL’s response to the audit, some changes are planned or underway, including:

• Faster Application Approvals: DOL approved 23 long-stalled applications from employers, unions or trade associations seeking to sponsor apprentice ship programs after auditors found that some applications had remained pending for more than three years. DOL plans to implement a Registered Apprenticeship System that includes a new digital application portal for potential sponsors to submit materials, track progress and help reduce future delays.

• Improved Monitoring: DOL is taking steps to ensure that monitoring visits to programs happen on schedule. These visits help determine sponsor compliance with program terms and provide technical assistance.

• Improved Data: DOL said its planned system will capture more information to support staff oversight, allow sponsors to identify and report errors and include data validation mechanisms.

• Increased Outreach and Promotion: DOL plans to incorporate questions about promotion of new trades and tax credit opportunities during staff visits with program sponsors.

DOL officials noted the mod ernization of the Registered Apprenticeship system will address many of the audit’s findings, and their response is included in the audit.