Alaska Primary Care Association
Level Up Your Healthcare Career as a Direct Support Professional (DSP)
Direct Support Professionals (DSP) care for people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities and help them with daily living. A DSP has strong people skills and can work with patients with varying levels of ability. Compassion and attention to detail are crucial to working in this role.
APCA’s Registered Apprenticeship Program helps you take your healthcare career to the next level, helping you earn while you learn.
Employee Benefits & Requirements:
- To participate in an apprenticeship program, you must be:
- An entry-level employee
- Currently employed
- Or starting employment, we can help you find a job
- By participating in an apprenticeship program, you will receive a minimum of two wage increases.
- The first wage increase is given halfway through the program.
- The second increase is given upon successful completion of the program – which includes class and skills.
- Some employers offer additional wage increases upon certification.
- During your apprenticeship, you must work a minimum of 35 hours per week, participate in the program, and complete all program requirements.
- In the apprenticeship program, you will receive additional support through mentorship. The mentor supports your learning and career development.
- The apprenticeship classes typically occur during working hours. You can expect to participate in classes 1-2 hours per week with some homework requirements.
- Apprenticeships are completed within one-to-two years and are program-dependent.
Employer Benefits & Requirements:
- Through partnership with the APCA, you will be connected with qualified potential applicants who have completed pre-apprenticeship training.
- By supporting existing employees in an apprenticeship program with APCA, you will save training time and resources while gaining a more skilled and knowledgeable workforce who is more equipped to meet the evolving demands of your community health center.
- As an employer, you must:
- Agree to the Department of Labor apprenticeship standards and sign an employer agreement with APCA (if one is not already in place).
- Provide flexibility to allow the apprentice to participate in online classes during working hours, approximately 1-2 hours per week.
- Provide on-the-job training with on-site mentorship.
- APCA provides support and guidance through mentor training, on-the-job training support, and many resources to ensure both the employer and employee are successful.
- As the employer supporting an apprentice, you must agree to a minimum of two wage increases:
- The first wage increase is given halfway through the program.
- The second increase is given upon successful completion of the program – which includes class and skills.
- Some employers offer additional wage increases upon certification.
- Apprenticeships are completed within one-to-two years and are program-dependent.
Questions about the Registered Apprenticeship Program?
Workforce Development & Health Equity Team