Building a skilled, resilient workforce is crucial for long-term success in today’s fast-evolving manufacturing and supply chain sectors. Registered Apprenticeships offer an industry-vetted career pathway that combines paid, hands-on training with structured classroom instruction and nationally recognized credentials. The Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA) is dedicated to expanding these opportunities as a national Registered Apprenticeship Industry Intermediary for the USDOL.
Why Industry Intermediaries Matter
Industry Intermediaries play a critical role in shaping the future of work by:
- Implementing Industry-Driven Strategies: Expanding Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across growing sectors.
- Building Robust Programs: Offering expert guidance to design programs that meet specific industry skill needs.
- Curriculum & Model Development: Creating program models, detailed instruction outlines, and tailored curricula to ensure apprentices are job-ready.
- Raising Awareness: Increasing the visibility of the apprenticeship model among employers, secondary and post-secondary educators, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
- Providing Technical Assistance & Funding Access: Assisting companies in launching or expanding apprenticeship programs while connecting them to incentive funding and other critical resources.
These focused efforts help businesses address workforce challenges and equip individuals with the skills needed to excel in today’s competitive market.
What Is Registered Apprenticeship?
Registered Apprenticeship is a top-tier, industry-driven career pathway where apprentices:
- Develop In-Demand Skills: Gain real-world experience while learning on the job.
- Earn Progressive Wages: Benefit from wage increases as their skills and responsibilities grow.
- Experience Structured Learning: Receive a balanced mix of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
- Obtain Nationwide Credentials: Earn a portable, nationally recognized credential that opens doors across industries.
For manufacturers, these programs solve immediate staffing challenges and build a sustainable pipeline of skilled talent, ultimately boosting productivity and reducing turnover.
4 Steps to Integrate Registered Apprenticeship into Your Company
- Select an Occupation: Identify the role that will serve as the foundation of your apprenticeship program.
- Consult with Experts: Engage with the VMA’s Apprenticeship Industry Intermediary Team and relevant state and federal representatives.
- Choose Your Sponsorship Model: Decide whether to sponsor the program as an employer or join a group sponsor.
- Launch and Sustain: Roll out your apprenticeship initiative, monitor progress, and refine the program to meet industry demands.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re looking to expand an existing apprenticeship program or launch a new initiative, the VMA and MSI provide the resources and expertise you need to succeed.
Get more information and explore next steps for the Industry Intermediary program!
Empower your company’s future by investing in a skilled workforce today.
This article was written by Wes Smith, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions at MSI. Got questions or want to connect? Reach out on LinkedIn or email us at communications@msi-workforce.com. Be sure to subscribe to the MSI Workforce Perspectives LinkedIn Newsletter for more insights and updates!
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