Anti-Harassment & Anti-Retaliation Guidelines for Apprenticeship Programs

Who These Guidelines Apply To 

These guidelines apply to all apprenticeship programs and Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees administered by RCC, including: 

MA #5002 – Jackson County Millwrights JATC 
MA #5004 – Rogue Valley JATC 
MA #5005 – Rogue Industrial Electrical JATC 
MA #5006 – Central Oregon Sheet Metal JATC 
MA #5009 – Area V Inside Electrical JATC 
MA #5010 – Southern Oregon Boiler Operators JATC 
MA #5022 – Rogue Valley HVAC/R JATC 
MA #5035 – Southern Oregon Aviation JATC  
 
They apply equally across all listed programs and cover all individuals who participate in or support apprenticeship training. 
 
What is Prohibited 

Harassment is prohibited when it is based on a protected characteristic, including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status or veteran status. 

Harassment includes unwelcome conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment or interferes with training or work. Examples include: 

• Derogatory jokes, slurs or epithets. 
• Unwanted physical contact or advances. 
• Threats, intimidation or bullying. 
• Displaying offensive or demeaning materials. 
• Interfering with training or job opportunities. 
• Retaliation related to a complaint or investigation. 
   

Retaliation is Prohibited 

RCC strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who: 

• Files a complaint. 
• Provides information. 
• Participates in an investigation. 
• Opposes discrimination or harassment in good faith. 

Retaliation may include demotion, suspension, denial of training opportunities, exclusion or other negative actions. Individuals who engage in retaliation may face disciplinary action, including removal from the apprenticeship program. 

This protection aligns with Oregon law and whistleblower protections. 
 
Where These Guidelines Apply 

These standards apply in all apprenticeship‑related settings, including: 

• Classrooms and training facilities. 
• Job sites. 
• Program events and meetings. 
• Any environment where program activities take place. 
   

How to Report Harassment or Retaliation 

If you experience or witness harassment or retaliation, you are encouraged to report it promptly. Reports may be verbal or written. 

You may report concerns to: 

• Your Program Coordinator or Training Director. 
• The Program Sponsor or Committee Chair. 
• Your Employer or Site Supervisor, if applicable. 
• An alternative program contact designated by the apprenticeship program. 

Providing details such as dates, locations, witnesses and descriptions can help with review and resolution. 
 
Investigation and Resolution Process 
Acknowledgment 

Reports are acknowledged within five business days. 

Investigation 

A fair, prompt and confidential investigation is conducted, including interviews and document review when appropriate. 

Findings And Action 

If harassment or retaliation is confirmed, corrective actions may include counseling, training, reassignment, suspension or removal from the program. 

Notification 

The reporting individual and the responding party are informed of the outcome, in line with privacy laws. 

Appeal 

An appeal process is available. Instructions are provided upon request. 
 
Protection & Support 

RCC protects participants who report concerns in good faith. 

• Confidentiality is maintained as much as possible. 
• No one will face negative consequences for reporting or participating in an investigation. 
• Retaliation complaints are handled with the same seriousness and urgency as harassment complaints. 
   

Training & Communication 

These guidelines are available on the Rogue Community College website for all apprenticeship participants. 

Training agents are responsible for ensuring that employees who work with apprentices complete required anti‑harassment training. Submission of the Acknowledgment Form confirms completion and understanding of these expectations. 
 
Legal Rights & External Options 

These guidelines do not replace or limit your legal rights. You may also choose to file complaints with external agencies, including: 

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries. 
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 
• State or federal courts. 

You may pursue external remedies at any time, independent of the internal program process. 
 
RCC is committed to fostering apprenticeship programs where everyone can learn, train and work with dignity and respect. If you are unsure how to proceed or need support, program staff are available to help you understand your options and next steps.