FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact
Rachel Dumeny, Communications and Outreach Coordinator
Vermont Department of Labor
(802) 272-4509 | Rachel.Dumeny@vermont.gov
Vermont Department of Labor Awards $225,000 Grant to Expand Apprenticeships in Manufacturing
Montpelier, Vt - The Vermont Department of Labor’s Workforce Development Division announced a new partnership with the Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC) aimed at increasing Registered Apprenticeships in manufacturing. This partnership, funded by a $225,000 grant from the Vermont Department of Labor, aims to strengthen Vermont’s workforce development and expansion efforts by fostering connections between employers, service providers, and partners to build a sustainable talent pipeline.
“This partnership with VMEC, including their expertise and connections both domestically and internationally, will play a pivotal role in driving the success of the Department’s efforts to expand the use of Registered Apprenticeships,” said Commissioner Michael Harrington.
As a key component of this collaboration, VMEC will take on the responsibility of serving as Vermont's designated Registered Apprenticeship Technical Assistance Center for the manufacturing sector. This designation highlights VMEC's dedication to offering support and guidance to manufacturers as they embark on the journey of Registered Apprenticeship.
“As Vermont looks to build a stronger, more resilient economy, we’ll need skilled workers in manufacturing to drive growth and innovation. VMEC is committed to growing Vermont’s economic potential through manufacturing apprenticeships,” states Patrick Boyle, VMEC Center Director and CEO. “We’re committed to supporting these vital pathways and helping business across the state harness the power of apprenticeship programs with support from the Department of Labor.”
VMEC will conduct surveys among manufacturers to assess their training needs, providing valuable insights to employers regarding the benefits of Registered Apprenticeship programs for recruitment and talent development. Furthermore, VMEC will facilitate connections between employers and a wide array of Registered Apprenticeship resources available at the state, regional, and national levels.
The partnership will also allow VMEC to serve as the conduit for Austrian expertise in manufacturing and Registered Apprenticeships. In November 2023, Vermont announced a bilateral agreement with the Republic of Austria to bring Austrian expertise to Vermont companies.
For more information regarding Registered Apprenticeship Programs, visit our website labor.vermont.gov/apprenticeship and www.apprenticeship.gov.
About Vermont Department of Labor: The Vermont Department of Labor is committed to fostering a vibrant economy by ensuring a skilled workforce and connecting job seekers with meaningful employment opportunities.
About Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC): Part of the nationwide MEP National Network and hosted by Vermont State University since 1995, VMEC operates as a not-for-profit with a primary mission, “To Strengthen and Empower Vermont Manufacturers.” A local resource and trusted adviser to manufacturing enterprises of all sizes, the VMEC team brings world-class expertise in consulting, coaching, hands-on implementation support, training and education for leaders and workers. VMEC provides proven systems and solutions focused on strategies, processes, products, technologies and people.
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