Advance your career while you serve with the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP)

Looking to boost professional skills and future career prospects while you serve in the Coast Guard?  The United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) can help by turning your on-duty hours into free, nationally recognized credentials. 

USMAP is a registered apprenticeship program that allows active-duty and reserve enlisted members to earn a nationally recognized journeyman-level certification from the U.S. Department of Labor. This program formally combines your on-the-job training (OJT) with your Coast Guard rating's technical instruction. The best part? You log your hours while performing your regular duties, so no off-duty time is required. 

Upon completion, you'll receive a "Certificate of Completion" and a Journeyman Card, which are valuable assets for your future career. 

Why sign up for USMAP? 

• No cost: Earn credentials that could cost thousands of dollars in the civilian world, free. (Example?) 

• No off-duty hours: All required training hours are completed during your regular workday. 

• Nationally recognized: Receive a Department of Labor (DOL) Certificate of Completion, respected by employers across the country. 

• Documented work experience: Build a verifiable portfolio of your skills and work experience. 

• Competitive edge: Gain an advantage in the civilian job market with documented on-the-job training. 

• Boost your confidence: Earning an apprenticeship is a significant accomplishment that enhances your professional standing and marketability. 

How it works 

USMAP offers two enrollment tracks based on your experience level: 

• Time-based: Designed for newer members, this track focuses on accumulating the required on-the-job working hours. 

• Competency-based: For experienced service members (E-5 and above), this track allows you to demonstrate mastery of your job's competencies, with a minimum enrollment of 12 months. 

Who is eligible? 

You can participate in USMAP if you: 

• are an enlisted service member. 

• have at least one year remaining on your contract. 

• enroll in an apprenticeship that aligns with your current rating. 

• are working full-time in a billet related to the apprenticeship. 

• work under the supervision of your immediate supervisor. 

• agree to follow the program's reporting requirements. 

Ready to get started? 

Getting started with USMAP is a simple four-step process: 

1. Review eligible trades: See which apprenticeships relate to your rating on the USMAP website.   

2. Review program requirements: Understand what is expected for your chosen trade. 

3. Enroll in USMAP: Complete the online enrollment process. 

4. Work and record hours: Begin logging your hours to work toward your certification. 

For more information and to start your application, visit the USMAP website  or speak with your Education Services Officer. To explore civilian apprenticeship opportunities, you can also visit the Department of Labor's website at  Homepage | Apprenticeship.gov  

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