State Apprenticeship Expansion Project

Since 2016, AIR’s apprenticeship team has supported states to expand the use of Registered Apprenticeship as a key workforce development strategy. Partnering with the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), AIR is the national technical assistance provider for state agencies receiving state apprenticeship expansion grants from USDOL. In this role, we work with all states and territories to grow Registered Apprenticeship; expand apprenticeship programs into new industries and occupations; and increase diversity, equity, and inclusion in apprenticeship.

USDOL has invested heavily in expanding Registered Apprenticeship to ensure America’s workforce has the skills needed to match today’s most in-demand jobs and the jobs of the future. As part of that investment, USDOL has recognized the critical role that states play as key facilitators and drivers of apprenticeship program expansion.

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Graphic: Five Elements of Effective Apprenticeship Expansion

Based on AIR’s framework of the five elements of effective apprenticeship expansion, the AIR apprenticeship team has supported states by:

  • Providing one-on-one technical assistance coaching from our experts to help states achieve their apprenticeship expansion goals.
  • Facilitating peer learning and knowledge sharing through an online community of practice, a monthly newsletter, and peer cohort convenings.
  • Identifying and disseminating promising practices and innovative approaches to accelerate adoption of proven strategies across the country.
  • Delivering high quality, evidence-based training that focuses on complex challenges, such as diversity, equity, and inclusion; alignment with workforce and education systems; business engagement; and more.

This project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor.