LANSING, MI—Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) announced Friday nine recipients of more than $6.1 million in State Apprenticeship Expansion 2023 Grant Program awards that will provide Michiganders with access to life-changing career opportunities through Registered Apprenticeships.
The funding will help future apprentices prepare and succeed in the program, while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility by expanding access to Registered Apprenticeship opportunities in non-traditional sectors and occupations.
“The State Apprenticeship Expansion 2023 Grant Program will create more paths to good-paying, high-skill jobs for Michiganders, so they can ‘make it’ in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “Registered Apprenticeships offer practical, hands-on training to help Michiganders develop in-demand skills and ensure businesses have the talent they need to expand right here in Michigan. Together, we will continue funding more low-cost paths to higher education and with the Michigan Guarantee, we can offer every high school graduate the chance to earn an associate’s degree or skills certificate at a community college for free. Let’s get it done.”
The grant program is focused on engaging Michiganders most severely impacted by COVID-19, including women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, English language learners and individuals without a High School Equivalency credential. Registered Apprenticeship participants earn competitive wages with scheduled pay increases and national industry recognized credentials. Median annual earnings for those completing a Registered Apprenticeship Program are currently more than $70,000.
“In Michigan, we’re creating an all-access approach by empowering Michiganders to build meaningful careers, and helping businesses grow with access to a skilled workforce,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “This is yet another important investment that helps level the playing field and supports those least often included in the benefits of Registered Apprenticeship, helping us deliver on our mission to close equity gaps, remove barriers, and help people on their pathway to economic prosperity.”