Train New Groomers In‑House (RAP)

Our program is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor under National Guidelines for Apprenticeship Standards. It combines structured on-the-job learning in your salon with guided online coursework, helping you build a team of professional dog groomers trained to national standards.

Train your staff your way with the same trusted curriculum used by colleges, customized to your salon’s workflow.

Attract and retain employees by offering a clear path to nationally recognized credentials (DOL certificate + AKC Credentials).

Reduce turnover costs by investing in people eager to grow, it’s an earn while you learn approach.
Tap into potential state or federal workforce funding that often supports apprenticeships.

Once apprentices complete the program, they’re eligible to earn two national certifications from the American Kennel Club:

• AKC Professional Groomer Credential (AKC-PGC)
• AKC Coat Type Groomer Certification (AKC-CT)

Together, these represent the formal title of AKC Professional Groomer.

• A turnkey program combining online learning, AKC-verified instructor support, and structured in-salon skill development.
  
• Clear tools, benchmarks, checklists, and compliance support so you’re never guessing what to teach next.
  
• Guidance on meeting all Department of Labor requirements, plus help documenting your apprentice’s progress.

• Apprentices are your paid employees, learning under your supervision while progressing through the program.
• Related Technical Instruction (RTI): Delivered through Groom Curriculum’s online platform and instructor coaching, focusing on new skills and theory.
• On-the-Job Training (OTJ): Hands-on work in your salon, where apprentices apply skills with growing independence under your journeyworkers mentorship.
• The program typically ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the apprentice’s pace and prior experience.
  

It’s simpler than you might think. We help you complete a straightforward agreement with the Department of Labor, provide tracking tools, and guide you through compliance. Most salon owners find it very manageable.

Program costs to Groom Curriculum:

• Enrollment Fee: $750 per apprentice, plus $129 PGC Exam fee, and $97 student book bundle
• One-Time On-Boarding Fee: $2,000

Additional costs paid to outside vendors:

• AKC Train-the-Trainer Credential Package: $399 per instructor (Includes AKC Safe, AKC-PGC, AKC-CT, and AKC Master certifications for your team)

Depending on your state, you may qualify for grants or tax incentives to help offset costs, we’re happy to help you explore local funding options.

Can I use state workforce or WIOA funding?
Yes, our program is approved to appear on state Eligible Training Provider Lists (ETPLs), which means it may qualify for WIOA or related workforce support in many areas.

Important note: Approval for funding is determined by each state’s individual rules and processes, and funding is typically only available for newly hired individuals who meet specific workforce eligibility criteria. Participation on an ETPL does not guarantee or promise that funding will be approved.

• Comprehensive, industry-specific curriculum designed exclusively for dog grooming, delivered through a modern Learning Management System (LMS) platform.
• Video lessons by AKC-verified instructors, training modules, student workbooks, formal assessments, and guided journaling for professionalism.
• Meets NCCET accreditation standards and prepares apprentices for the AKC credential exams.
• We maintain detailed progress records and share them with your supervising instructor.
• Includes a robust Train-the-Trainer course to ensure your team is fully prepared to mentor apprentices, with live Google sessions, LMS training, and AKC certification support.

Book a Meeting to schedule a quick call, or Contact Us to send an email. We’ll learn more about your salon, walk you through the next steps, and show you how simple it is to launch a Registered Apprenticeship Program in your shop.