In Observance of National Apprenticeship Week, DDSN Celebrates Landmark Program via Partnership with Apprenticeship Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) and Apprenticeship Carolina are celebrating National Apprenticeship Week by drawing attention to a recent, innovative program launched by the latter and implemented by DDSN. The apprenticeship program is for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) in South Carolina, making it the first of its kind in the nation. It’s unique because it offers financial support to employers, so they can invest in their workforce and expand access to high-quality Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services throughout the state. National Apprenticeship Week runs this year from Nov. 13-19.

RBTs are professionals who provide direct services to individuals with Autism. Under this program, job sites will be reimbursed through grant scholarship funding when they offer apprenticeships to RBTs. Additionally, each registered apprentice will be eligible for up to $4,000 in reimbursement dollars.

"We are thrilled to have this one-of-kind program for Applied Behavior Analysis providers in South Carolina," said Stephanie Turner, DDSN’s Autism Division Director. "Through financial support offered by Apprenticeship Carolina, we aim to strengthen the workforce in the ABA field while enhancing access to critical services for individuals with disabilities and special needs. This program will assist ABA providers, while cutting their costs and improving outcomes for the individuals they serve."

The apprenticeship program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and offers comprehensive training for ABA providers, those who use behavior analysis strategies to help people learn new skills. Through this program, providers will gain the necessary skills to excel in their roles, so they can administer high standards of care for individuals with disabilities and special needs across South Carolina.

In addition to the $4,000 reimbursement, organizations may also request up to $1,000 per apprentice in supportive service funding. This will provide financial assistance for apprentices who acknowledge they need support to overcome obstacles that may hinder their completion of the apprenticeship, such as childcare needs, housing assistance, utility aid, and transportation, among others.

“We’re excited to partner with the SC Department of Disabilities and Special Needs for this opportunity,” said Amanda Richardson, Vice President of Apprenticeship Carolina. “Apprenticeship programs, such as the one for RBTs, allow organizations to create a talent pipeline of highly skilled workers at the same time that employees develop high-demand skills and earn a nationally recognized credential. It’s a true win-win.”

Employers interested in becoming an apprenticeship site can reach out to the Apprenticeship Carolina Consultant for their county.

The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs plans, develops, coordinates and funds services for residents with various severe, lifelong disabilities. Populations served include individuals with traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities.

Apprenticeship Carolina is a division of the SC Technical College System. The division leads South Carolina in registered apprenticeship programs that help businesses and communities thrive economically.

For more on DDSN’s activities and mission, visit their website and follow the agency on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. For more on Apprenticeship Carolina, visit their site and follow the organization on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.