Resources

1. Training Agent Pathways: Comprehensive Guide for Contractors in Oregon and Washington
(Click Here to Download)

A Training Agent (TA) is an employer formally approved to hire and train registered apprentices under a state-approved apprenticeship program. In Oregon and Washington, Training Agents operate under the rules of each state’s apprenticeship council and the applicable local Apprenticeship & Training Committee (ATC/JATC). Becoming a TA helps contractors develop a pipeline of skilled workers, meet public contract apprentice-utilization goals, and improve quality, safety, and productivity. This guide explains what a TA is, why it matters, the step-by-step process in both Oregon and Washington, compliance obligations, and includes checklists, templates, and a 90-day launch plan.

The construction industry continues to face a skilled-labor shortage, and apprenticeship is a proven way to grow a qualified workforce. However, many small contractors are unaware of the legal steps, paperwork, and partner agencies involved in becoming authorized to train apprentices on their job sites.

This report provides a practical, compliance-focused roadmap for general contractors and subcontractors that want to:

1. Understand what a “Training Agent” is and how it fits into state apprenticeship systems.

2. Learn the legal and regulatory requirements that apply in both Oregon (BOLI/OSATC) and Washington (L&I/WSATC).

3. Follow a step-by-step pathway to register as a Training Agent under an existing approved apprenticeship sponsor—often the quickest and most cost-effective route.

4. Identify the forms, reporting duties, ratios, wage progressions, and record-keeping obligations that employers must meet once approved.

5. Locate key links, contacts, and checklists that shorten the learning curve and reduce administrative barriers for contractors.

More coming soon!