The On-the-Job Training program helps develop the capacity of the Nation’s current and future highway construction industry workforce by providing the development and diversity of skilled labor. Eligible Uses: The On-the-Job Training Program directly supports the requirement that prime contractors participating on Federally-assisted contracts to establish apprenticeship and training programs targeted to move minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals into journey-level positions and provides funds for State departments of transportation to implement skills training programs to prepare individuals to participate in the highway construction workforce as trainees and apprentices on Federally-assisted construction contracts. Additionally, funding is provided to States to partner with accredited academic institutions for the National Summer Transportation Institute program focused on science, technology, engineering, and math opportunities for high school and junior high/middle school students to learn about, and become familiar with, transportation-related career options. Funding also supports the Summer Transportation Internship Program for Diverse Groups, which provides internship opportunities for college students to engage with Department of Transportation modes to work in a transportation-related career field. 

Every year, FHWA requests DOTs to submit a Statement of Work (SOW) demonstrating how the State DOT plans to provide a career path for minority, women, and/or disadvantagedgroups and individuals. State DOTs must also demonstrate involvement and collaboration among construction and professional trade associations, contractors, educational institutions (trade schools, public schools, community colleges, and universities), Departments of Labor, Departments of Education, and/or advocacy, non-profit, or veteran organizations. When developing a SOW, the State DOT must consider the following workforce and SOW fundamental outcomes:

Careers leading to journey status (Not Short-Term Jobs);

Partnerships and Meaningful Industry Engagement;

Strategies to Increase Opportunities for Under-Represented Populations;

Focus on Results and Outcomes;

Value for the Funds Provided.