Expanding Access, Elevating Opportunity: A Conversation on Apprenticeships
The April installment of our Professional Learning Series, “Apprenticeships for All” brought together leaders from across Colorado’s education and workforce landscape to explore how apprenticeships can better support learners on their path to high-value careers.
A huge thanks to our panelists for sharing their work to expand high-quality apprenticeships and their insights on what it takes to ensure all learners can access and succeed in them:
- Kevin Riebau of Emily Griffith Technical College
- Londell Jackson of Apprenticeship Colorado
- Cori Gerlitz of the Construction Industry Training Council
- Bill Bicket of Greiner Electric
And a very special thanks to Daesha Ottem for sharing her insights as an apprentice and now a project engineer at Greiner Electric!
Discussion Highlights
Apprenticeship as a Path to a Degree
Kevin Riebau shared the impact of HB25-1221, which was recently signed into law by Gov. Jared Polis. The law will allow EGTC to award Associate of Applied Science degrees to registered apprentices. This advancement creates stronger connections between hands-on learning and long-term career advancement. With more than 11% annual growth in apprentice enrollment, Kevin noted that interest in apprenticeships is higher than ever. EGTC’s offerings include registered apprenticeships in carpentry, electrical work, and voice-data tech—with new programs underway for school food specialists, HVACR, water operations and other high-value careers.
Supports That Help Apprentices Succeed
Panelists emphasized that apprenticeships are most effective when learners are supported every step of the way. Supports that can support learners in completing include:
- Flexible scheduling
- Mentorship and coaching
- Career navigation
- Assistance with childcare, transportation, and housing
Challenges that Remain
Daesha emphasized the need for clearer up-front information about possible career pathways and available supports. She also shared her experiences revealing gaps in continuity across programs, highlighting the need for collaboration across education and industry to support the success of apprentices.
The Attainment Network’s Role
We continue to:
- Partner with education and industry to expand access to high-quality apprenticeships
- Offer technical assistance and guidance for establishing high-quality apprenticeship programs or pursuing continuous improvement of existing programs
- Elevate strategies that center learner success
Resources
You can view the PowerPoint slides from the session here, and watch the full recording here.
Check out some great resources available to those looking to start or improve apprenticeship programs in Colorado:
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State of Colorado Apprenticeship Resources
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The Attainment Network – Apprenticeship Toolkit
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Emily Griffith Technical College – Apprenticeship Programs
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