Department of Labor Grant: Enhancing State Capacity for Apprenticeship Expansion

The goal of these funds is to expand the national Registered Apprenticeship system by funding baseline activities that improve States’ ability to serve, improve, and strategically scale the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) model described in 29 C.F.R. parts 29, Subpart A, and 29 C.F.R.30; and to fund innovations aimed at using RAPs as a tool for developing the economy and building infrastructure.

In June 2017, the President issued an Executive Order (E.O.) 13801, Expanding Apprenticeship in America, with a focus on preparing workers to fill both existing and newly created jobs, and to prepare workers for the jobs of the future. Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and apprentices can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential. The E.O. directs the federal government to “promote apprenticeships and effective workforce development programs.” Expanding apprenticeships can help individuals gain the skills necessary to fill vacancies and help employers find skilled workers more easily and quickly.