What is IRAP?
The Foundation offers many resources for students to grow into a career in the equipment industry, including its number of accredited college programs across North America. For those interested in becoming diesel technicians without attending a 2-year college program, AEDF is proud to be the Standards Recognition Entity (SRE) for the Industry–Recognized Apprenticeship Program (IRAP). The program offers another pathway for aspiring technicians to achieve their career goals.
How Can IRAP be Beneficial to Your Dealership?
Expanding and improving apprenticeship programs is another way to help close the skills gap by validating that trained technicians have obtained relevant skills. Companies who develop an IRAP can grow their own talent and ensure the future of their skilled workforce.
Through IRAP, the Foundation offers an additional resource for workers looking to enter the equipment industry, and dealers who need to recruit and retain technical talent. For more information on IRAP, please contact AED Foundation Apprenticeship Consultant Rebecca Daurio at rdaurio@aednet.org.
IRAP Roadmap
An IRAP must include the following elements:
- a written training plan
- a paid work component
- on-the-job training/work experience with supportive mentorship and supervision
- related instruction
- safety and equal employment opportunity
- an industry-recognized credential
Within these elements are specific processes and more detailed requirements. To view a more detailed manual, please click here.
Standards for Construction Equipment Technology
Now in its ninth edition, the Standards for Construction Equipment Technology is the result of voluntary efforts by technical experts in the construction equipment industry. The project is sponsored by The AED Foundation and includes the participation of leading construction equipment distributors, equipment manufacturers and post-secondary schools. The standards cover six areas that the industry considers most important for the education of entry-level technicians:
- Safety/Administrative
- Electrical/Electronics
- Hydraulics/Hydrostatics
- Power Trains
- Diesel Engines
- Air Conditioning/Heating
IRAP Training Plan
This training plan is designed to act as a template to meet the necessary documentation requirements of an IRAP. Employers may use this as a guide when creating their own IRAP Training Plan. Please click here to access the IRAP Training Plan.
IRAP Application
The application for recognition is below. Please ensure that you have reviewed the IRAP Roadmap above and that your program includes all of the necessary elements including a written training plan, paid work, on-the-job training/work experience, related instruction, safety and equal employment opportunity, and the industry recognized credential. You can contact Rebecca Daurio, AED Foundation Apprenticeship Consultant at rdaurio@aednet.org for questions or more information.
AEDF IRAP Webinar
Want to learn more about IRAP? Watch our latest webinar by clicking below. (View slide deck by clicking here.)
