This publication reviews available literature regarding apprenticeship in the United States and 17 other industrialized market-economy nations. It notes outstanding practices that may be replicated or transferred to strengthen U.S. apprenticeship. The publication begins by defining apprenticeships and outlining the unique features of U.S. apprenticeship, citing both its strengths and deficiencies. In the remainder of the work attention is given to improvements in seven deficiencies of U.S. apprenticeship: variable quality of training offered, inadequacies in the administration of apprenticeship, inadequate numbers trained, concerns about the cost effectiveness of apprenticeship, inadequate financing for certain apprenticeship programs, limited access to apprenticeships, and unclear role and relationship to other training. Promising practices are detailed that may help remedy the problems identified. Recommendations regarding the transferability of practices are suggested, including broader training, regular curriculum review and updating, development of trade examinations, establishment of a resource center, Federal leadership, adoption of a system of Industrial Training Boards, recruitment of women, promotion of alternant training, and collaboration between vocational education and apprenticeship. The paper calls for communication and dialogue with other industrialized countries on the subject of apprenticeship and industrial training. Nine pages of references conclude the report. (YLB)