Hello OBFAA Community—Members and Supporters Alike:

 

We want to inform you about two newly proposed policy changes from the Oregon State Apprenticeship and Training Council (OSATC) and the Bureau of Labor and Industries Apprenticeship and Training Division (BOLI-ATD) that would significantly impact how registered apprentices are trained and advanced in the field throughout Oregon.

 

These proposed changes would:

1. Restrict a JATC’s ability to grant credit for prior related work experience
   OSATC Policy: Credit for Prior Experience Cap  

2. Limit the scope of field work tasks registered apprentices are allowed to perform while employed by a training agent
   OSATC Policy: Work Processes for Actively Registered Apprentices 

 

If adopted, these policies will create new barriers to entry, delay apprentice progress, and reduce the flexibility JATCs currently have to recognize prior on-the-job experience — directly affecting employers, apprentices, and the future of Oregon’s skilled workforce.

IEC Oregon Response & Industry-Wide Effort with the Allied Coordinators Group (Open Shop Apprenticeship Program Administrators)

 

IEC Oregon has prepared formal letters of opposition (attached) to be submitted to BOLI-ATD and the OSATC.

Importantly, open shop apprenticeship programs across Oregon — not just in the Limited Energy trade — are also reaching out to their training agents and industry partners to gather broad support in opposing these changes. Together, we’re uniting as an industry to protect the integrity, flexibility, and effectiveness of apprenticeship training in Oregon.

 

How You Can Support This Effort

We invite your company to show its support by allowing your company logo and signature to be included in the final letter submitted on behalf of the MA1099 Limited Energy Apprenticeship Program. 

If your company would like to be represented:

 

• Please email your digital signature and high-resolution company logo to: eva@iecoregon.org

 

The final letter, including all supporting companies, will be submitted to BOLI on October 23, 2025, and a copy will be shared with all participants who sign.

Why Add Your Company Logo and Signature?

• Show Unified Industry Opposition: Your support strengthens the collective voice of apprenticeship employers across Oregon.

• Raise Awareness with Policymakers: Decision-makers are more likely to take notice when respected employers speak out.

• Defend Flexible, Effective Training: These policy changes directly affect your ability to train and hire the next generation of skilled workers.

Participation is completely voluntary — if you choose not to be included, no problem at all.

Attachments:

• IEC Oregon – Two Letters of Opposition to BOLI-ATD / OSATC Policy Changes