Iowa to receive additional apprenticeship funding

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DES MOINES – Iowa is among the states receiving second round funds for the ApprenticeshipUSA State Expansion Grants, according to an announcement from the U.S. Department of Labor on Thursday. The department says Iowa will be awarded more than $1 million.

“This additional funding to further grow Registered Apprenticeship in Iowa affirms the positive progress we’re making to unleash opportunities in Iowa,” Gov. Kim Reynolds said. “Registered Apprenticeship expansion will help Iowans get the skills they need to start a rewarding career.”

In November 2016, Iowa received $1.8 million in the first round of funding for the ApprenticeshipUSA State Expansion Grants. Iowa has used that money to expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs in diverse industries, including health care, advanced manufacturing and information technology, as well as encouraging more women, veterans, minorities and people with disabilities to explore Registered Apprenticeship careers.

Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend says the new money will help keep momentum going created through the first grant.

“The news Iowa is receiving another round of funding comes at a very opportune time," Townsend said. “We just launched a new Registered Apprenticeship website to help job seekers and employers learn about Registered Apprenticeship opportunities and next steps. This funding will help us continue expanding and enhancing our efforts.”

Expanding Registered Apprenticeship Programs is a key strategy in the state’s Future Ready Iowa initiative. The goal of Future Ready Iowa is for 70 percent of Iowa workers to have education or training beyond high school by 2025. A Registered Apprenticeship provides hands-on experience and education and allows participants to earn while they learn.

Iowa is considered a national Registered Apprenticeship leader. Gov. Reynolds was appointed to President Trump’s Task Force on Apprenticeship Expansion last fall and is an advocate of the Registered Apprenticeship model.

Visit earnandlearn.gov to learn more about Registered Apprenticeship Programs in Iowa.

apprenticeship. www.earnandlearn.gov, business, Economic Development, fort madison, Industry, Pen City Current, State of Iowa

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