The Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) believes that registered apprenticeship serves as a crucial tool for employers to build their own talent pipelines while creating high-wage, in-demand job opportunities for Oklahomans. Research suggests that more than 70 percent of jobs in Oklahoma will require education or training beyond high school in the next ten years, but only 42 percent of our current workforce meet that demand. To address the skills gap, employers across all industries are increasingly turning to registered apprenticeship and as a workforce solution.​

 

To support employers and industry partners in creating effective registered apprenticeship programs (RAP), OOWD is pleased to invite you to apply for apprenticeship incentive reimbursement funds to establish new apprenticeship programs or expand existing programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Funding for this competitive application comes from the U.S. DOL’s State Apprenticeship Expansion 2020 Grant and the Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Grant awarded to the State of Oklahoma.​

 

Incentive reimbursement funds are disbursed over the course of one year and are available per apprentice.

​

Applicants applying as a consortium should consist of two or more employers who are committed to creating an apprenticeship program within the same occupation and according to the same apprenticeship standards (such as pay, length of program, minimum requirements, etc.).

​

Competitive applications will be employer-led, demonstrate a talent pipeline need in an apprenticeable occupation, and in partnership with the local workforce board. Strong applications will also demonstrate an educational plan for the proposed apprenticeship through a partnership with a K-12 school, local Career and Technical Education provider, community college or university, or expert in-house training.

​

Download the full announcement, with additional information, and the application below.