DWD receives over $1 million to expand Wisconsin apprenticeship programs

MADISON, Wis. -- The Department of Workforce Development announced Tuesday it has been awarded more than $1 million to expand Wisconsin's Registered Apprenticeship and Certified Pre-Apprenticeship programs.

The DWD said the grant will increase its ability to enhance Wisconsin's connection to the national apprenticeship system, which will expand opportunities, strengthen the workforce, and position the economy to succeed. The award is part of the U.S. Department of Labor's State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula funding, created under President Biden's "Investing in America" agenda.

With the money, the DWD said Wisconsin Apprenticeship will:

• Conduct outreach to increase awareness of apprenticeship opportunities.
• Create new opportunities for emerging-sector employers to participate in apprenticeship .
• Increase apprenticeship partnerships with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
• Improve systems through technology updates.
• Enhance sponsors' ability to use technology to track their apprentices' progress.
• Boost the connection between Certified Pre- Apprenticeship and Registered Apprenticeship programs.

In terms of the programs being expanded, the DWD said the Registered Apprenticeship is an earn-while-you-learn model that connects apprentices to high-skill, high-wage employment. The program also delivers return-on-investment to participating employers by providing a more loyal and skilled workforce and a competitive advantage. Job seekers gain access to hands-on training, mentorship, and a career.

The DWD said Certified Pre- Apprenticeship helps participants gain necessary skills and education before starting a registered a pprenticeship . The Wisconsin Apprenticeship Advisory Council approves all certified pre- apprenticeship programs to ensure that the program meets the needs of employers using the apprenticeship model to train employees.

To learn more about Wisconsin's apprenticeship programs, visit wisconsinapprenticeship.com .

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