2024 Evolution | Paid Advertising SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL 18 • 2024 EVOLUTION City of Springfield, Department of Workforce Development Phone: 417-887-4343 Website: springfieldmo.gov/ apprenticeships The city of Springfield is making strides in workforce development with its Registered Apprenticeship Program, Apprenticeship Building America, spearheaded by the City’s Department of Workforce Development and backed by a substantial four-year grant from the Department of Labor. Katherine Proctor, Communications Coordinator, and Haley Jones-Sides, Grant Coordinator, shed light on the program’s objectives and the significant benefits it brings to both individuals and businesses. The Apprenticeship Building America grant operates on a two-tiered system designed to benefit both employers and job seekers. According to Jones-Sides, the program focuses on increasing equitable pathways, not only for apprentices but also for employers. “We received this grant to create and expand programs, ensuring both parties reap the benefits,” she explained. The program helps place individuals in apprenticeship roles while simultaneously assisting employers in developing and refining their hiring and retention strategies. The initiative covers a 10-county region and is currently focusing primarily on the health care sector, though it spans several industries. Proctor highlights the collaboration with major healthcare providers such as Cox Health, Mercy and Jordan Valley, emphasizing the program’s adaptability to different sectors. “Our primary focus is health care, but the program’s flexibility allows us to support various industries, tailoring apprenticeships to meet specific employer needs,” she explained. Jones-Sides outlined the key advantages for businesses participating in the apprenticeship program, one of which is improved recruitment and retention of a highly skilled workforce. “Employers can recruit and develop a workforce that is tailored to their specific needs, resulting in increased productivity and profitability,” she noted. Additional perks include tax credits and employee tuition benefits. The customized training ensures that businesses can grow their own talent, significantly enhancing employee retention rates. Opportunities for Individuals For individuals, the apprenticeship program offers a unique opportunity to earn while they learn. This model allows participants to gain practical experience and financial stability at the same time. “In the current economic climate, it’s crucial to provide pathways where individuals can earn money while completing their training and be assured of employment afterward,” said Jones-Sides. The program promises continuous career development, with apprentices often securing quality jobs that offer substantial benefits and career advancement opportunities. Proven Success Since its inception on July 1, 2022, the program has achieved remarkable success. By the end of April 2024, it had served 366 individuals through registered apprenticeship programs and enrolled another 101 in pre-apprenticeship programs. “We are well on track to exceed our grant measures,” said Proctor, who attributes the success to the collaborative efforts of local government, workforce development staff and participating businesses. Community and Economic Impact The Apprenticeship Building America grant is not only about filling job vacancies but also about addressing the broader economic needs of the Springfield and surrounding areas. The initiative targets underserved and underrepresented populations, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are equitably distributed. “We constantly gather labor market information and adapt our strategies to meet the evolving needs of the community,” explained Jones-Sides. This approach ensures that the program remains relevant and effective in fostering a skilled and resilient workforce. To find out how your organization can start a Registered Apprenticeship program, contact Sue Smith at 417-887-4343 or visit www. springfieldmo.gov/apprenticeships. The Apprenticeship Building America Grant is a $3 million grant awarded to the City of Springfield, Department of Workforce Development and is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Registered Apprenticeship Program Bridges Skills Gap Are Registered Apprenticeships GOOD FOR YOUR BUSINESS? Benefits for Employers • Skilled workforce • Improved productivity • Access to Federal & State resources • Customizable training • Worker retention • Diversity The Apprenticeship Building America Grant is a $3 million grant awarded to the City of Springfield, Department of Workforce Development and is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. If you would like to learn more about how to incorporate Registered Apprenticeships at your place of business, contact Sue Smith at 417-887-4343 or sue.smith@springfield.gov.
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