Department of Labor seeks to expand opportunities for underrepresented populations

August 11, 2016

ApprenticeshipUSA initiative, the department’s Employment and Training Administration announced it is seeking to award three to five contracts to workforce intermediaries, including community-based organizations; labor organizations; or workforce, industry and education organizations to develop national or regional “opportunity partnerships.” This is the fourth installment of a $90 million funding strategy to grow and diversify apprenticeship announced in April 2016. “When it comes to expanding apprenticeships to help traditionally underrepresented populations share in the growth of our economy and blaze a trail to the middle class, we cannot take our foot off the pedal,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. “This project and $90 million in ApprenticeshipUSA investments demonstrate our commitment to continue to diversify our pool of apprentices and break down barriers to opportunity in this proven earn-while-you-learn model.” The contracts intend to increase the number of opportunities for underrepresented populations to complete Registered Apprenticeship programs. Specifically, contractors will:

  • Identify, develop and disseminate tools and strategies that increase access, entry and retention in Registered Apprenticeships for underrepresented populations.
  • Through partnerships and direct technical assistance to Registered Apprenticeship sponsors, help apprenticeship programs develop diversity and inclusion plans and implement strategies that increase the diversity of workers entering and completing Registered Apprenticeship programs successfully.
  • Support the continued replication and scaling of successful diversity and inclusion practices.
Today, 91 percent of apprentices remain employed after completing their Registered Apprenticeship programs, with average annual starting wages above $50,000. The return on investment for employers is substantial, as studies indicate that for every dollar spent on apprenticeship, employers receive average of $1.47 return in increased productivity, reduced waste and greater front-line innovation.]]>

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