Apprenticeship Colorado is pleased to announce the application release to recognize Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries as an innovative strategy to accelerate high-quality apprenticeship programs in the state and to attract new talent to in-demand occupations as a result of HB21-1007: State Apprenticeship Agency. Once recognized, Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries will be uniquely positioned to support and accelerate Registered Apprenticeship expansion in Colorado and will be eligible for competitive funding opportunities and other benefits.
"Building a robust apprenticeship system hinges on collaborative partnerships that empower employers to initiate and maintain programs. By establishing a network of Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries, we not only strengthen our system but also put career seekers and employers at the forefront. As the State Apprenticeship Agency, we're enthusiastic about spearheading this strategy, channeling resources towards high-quality training, and accelerating the adoption of this transformative model." - Denise Miller, Director, Apprenticeship Colorado
What is a Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary?
Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries are organizations operating in Colorado that play a crucial role in expanding or enhancing our state’s Registered Apprenticeship System through their support of career seekers, apprentices, employers, and/or Sponsors.
Organizations can apply for recognition in one or both categories:
- Industry Apprenticeship Intermediaries focus on addressing employer needs through apprenticeship by providing services such as designing and delivering curriculum, connecting employers to apprenticeship programs, reducing administrative burden through tools or acting as the sponsor, offering professional development, and providing financial support and other resources to support the growth and sustainability of Registered Apprenticeship Programs.
- Talent Apprenticeship Intermediaries focus on career seeker and/or apprentice needs, especially those facing employment barriers, by ensuring that they are aware of apprenticeship programs, have the resources and referrals to enroll in the program, and the support necessary to complete their program and understand their career pathway.
Both public and private entities are encouraged to apply. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Multi-Employer Apprenticeship Sponsors
- An Economic Development organization
- An Apprenticeship Training Committee
- A Local Workforce Board
- A Local School District or BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services)
- An Industry or Trade Association
- A Community College or other institution of education
- A Nonprofit Organization
- A State Agency
- Entities that represent a group of business partners
- Organizations that provide services, tools, or staffing to apprenticeship programs
Why Should Your Organization Consider Applying?
Recognition as a Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary provides several benefits, including:
- Statewide recognition for supporting apprenticeship expansion
- Eligibility for competitive funding opportunities
- Increased visibility to attract new customers
- Invitations to exclusive training and events provided by the Apprenticeship Colorado team
How Do Organizations Apply to Be a Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary?
The application is now live on the Apprenticeship Colorado website. The last day to apply is May 17, 2024. Applicants are encouraged to review the application and website and contact apprenticeship@state.co.us if they have questions.
Register for the Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries Q&A Webinar on May 7, 2024 from 10-11 a.m. to learn more about the eligibility and application process. Please submit your questions in advance using this Questions and Comments Form.