Aiming to build up its pipeline of workers for the next generation, Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) recently announced new grant awards to help create apprenticeship opportunities across the state.
The grant funds, which involve two different IWD programs, will support both existing and brand new programs in the agency’s Registered Apprenticeship (RA) program, including many in high-demand fields, the agency said in a news release.
In total, IWD is awarding about $3.6 million in funding to programs sponsoring a combined total of 5,344 apprentices across Iowa.
“Apprenticeship programs continue to be a gold standard for opening the doorway to the possibilities that exist in today’s workforce,” Gov. Kim Reynolds said in the release. “I’m proud that our state can continue to not only support apprenticeship programs that are already successful but also help jumpstart new programs that are focused on the occupations we need most in the economy.”
Grants total $2.4M
The state’s support comes from the Iowa Apprenticeship Act (84E). It supports annual funding for ongoing apprenticeship programs, and the Iowa Registered Apprenticeship Development Fund (84F). That helps drive the success of new programs in high-demand occupations.
The latest round of grants awarded this month include $2.94 million for 67 programs under the 84E program and $665,000 for 28 programs under the 84F program.
Programs in the Quad Cities region receiving (84E) funding for RA programs include:
- Davenport Community School District, 39 apprentices, $21,621.72.
- Davenport Community School District/Mississippi Valley School District Consortium, 47 apprentices, $26,056.95.
- Eastern Iowa Community College District, 16 apprentices, $8,870.45.
- HNI Corporation, 14 apprentices, $7,761.64.
- Muscatine Community School District, eight apprentices, $4,435.23.
See the full list of 2024 RA grant awardees here.
Path to promising career
“The pathway to a promising career in our state is easier than you think, and as we’ve seen time and again, a successful apprenticeship program can be that connection point for so many Iowans,” IWD Executive Director Beth Townsend said in the release. “These awards continue to prove how valuable apprenticeship programs can be and also how they can be applied in more occupations than ever before.”
Iowa continues to see success in the development and expansion of RA programs and, as a next step, is currently developing the Iowa Office of Apprenticeship to better encourage innovation and effective program development.
Employers use RA programs to recruit and develop well-trained workers in highly skilled occupations, while individuals who become apprentices are able to start a rewarding career path while earning a paycheck. Many employers also work with Iowa community colleges and high schools to model successful programs that combine classroom work with on-the-job experience.
For more information about apprenticeship programs in Iowa, visit workforce.iowa.gov/apprenticeship.
