Massachusetts Awarded More Than $1 Million for Registered Apprenticeship

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced that the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) awarded $1.5 million for Massachusetts to support Registered Apprenticeship as a training and employment strategy for emerging industries. This awarded USDOL grant builds on the administration’s commitment to expand Registered Apprenticeship, a proven workforce strategy that combines technical and on-the-job training for workers, delivers industry-recognized credentials, and increases access to progressive wage increases and good-paying jobs.

The administration also announced it is making apprenticeship more affordable for veterans by eliminating all renewal registration fees. Previously, the Division of Apprentice Standards eliminated the initial or first-year registration fee for veterans. Currently, there are more than 450 registered apprentices who are veterans.

“Our veterans have already demonstrated the leadership, discipline, and commitment that employers are looking for, and we want to make it as easy as possible for them to build successful careers here in Massachusetts,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “Registered Apprenticeship is one of the best pathways to a good-paying job, and today’s investments will help more workers gain the skills employers need while eliminating costs that can stand in the way for veterans. We’re proud to support those who served our country while helping businesses build the workforce they need to grow.”

Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones added that “Registered Apprenticeship is a powerful tool, paving the way for workers, closing skills gaps, and connecting employers with new talent. As we scale Registered Apprenticeship, it is also important that we increase access for untapped talent, like skilled veterans — providing more affordable pathways to careers with competitive wages and benefits to work and live in Massachusetts.”