What's Happening?
Safal Partners has received a $2.1 million grant from Ascendium Education Group to launch a national initiative aimed at integrating Registered Apprenticeship into state and local workforce board service
delivery under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The initiative will provide six state cohorts with technical assistance, coaching, and policy development support to enhance the use of Registered Apprenticeship programs. This effort is part of Safal's broader mission to improve workforce systems and expand access to career pathways for underserved populations.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it seeks to strengthen the workforce system by integrating Registered Apprenticeship programs, which are known to improve employment outcomes and skill development. By focusing on states' workforce boards, the initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of WIOA service delivery, ultimately benefiting low-income learners, rural residents, and individuals facing employment barriers. The project underscores the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to address workforce challenges and expand access to high-quality career opportunities.
What's Next?
Safal Partners will work with selected states to develop and implement policies and training programs that support sustainable apprenticeship-focused service delivery. The initiative will culminate in a national Peer Learning Summit and the creation of a customizable playbook for workforce systems. This will provide a framework for other states to replicate successful strategies, potentially leading to broader adoption of Registered Apprenticeship programs across the U.S.
