WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to strengthen the economy and help more Rhode Island residents earn a paycheck while learning a trade, Rhode Island is getting $353,679 to improve and expand its Registered Apprenticeship program, U.S. Senator Jack Reed announced.  The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) will receive the State Apprenticeship Expansion grant, which was awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor. 

  

Registered apprenticeship programs combine structured on-the-job training with related technical coursework instruction.  Apprenticeships pay participants from day one with training wages progressing as apprentices learn skills.

“This is a win for young people looking to earn while they learn, for employers who are looking to hire skilled, well-trained workers, and for growing the state’s workforce.  I am pleased to help deliver these federal funds to invest in building a strong workforce for Rhode Island.  Apprenticeships provide a proven pathway for workers to learn and lay the foundation for successful careers and this federal grant will help expand opportunities, enhance skills training, and eliminate barriers to employment,” said Senator Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee.  “This infusion of federal dollars will help train more workers in a variety of fields as the state gears up to build the major infrastructure projects that Congress provided funding for over the last two years.” 

Through Apprenticeship RI -- a strategic partnership with Building Futures -- DLT’s Registered Apprenticeship program is an employer-driven model that provides an effective way for employers to recruit, train, and retain highly skilled workers.  As an “earn and learn” strategy, Registered Apprenticeship offers job seekers immediate employment that offers advancement along a career path and a nationally-recognized credential.

According to DLT’s website, apprenticeship programs can be created in any occupation where the employer has a need for skilled workers. Rhode Island active Registered Apprenticeship offerings span multiple industries, including construction, health care, IT/cyber security, tourism, and hospitality, and 48 professions, from bricklayer and carpenter to IT Help Desk Technician to Tool and Die Maker.

Businesses and job seekers interested in apprenticeships can learn more by visiting DLT at: https://dlt.ri.gov/regulation-and-safety/apprenticeship