Maine Apprenticeship Program Awarded $752,000 Grant Bookmark and Share

July 1, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, July 1, 2019

Media Contact: Jessica Picard, Maine Department of Labor, jessica.l.picard@maine.gov or 207-621-5099Call: 207-621-5099

Maine Apprenticeship Program Awarded $752,000 Grant

AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Labor is pleased to announce that the Maine Apprenticeship Program (MAP) has been awarded a $752,812.68 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to expand apprenticeships in Maine. The funding will be utilized over a three-year period beginning in July 2019.

The grant funds will be used to increase the program's capacity and efficiency by placing more apprentices with employers across the state and providing support for apprenticeship participants, as well as to fund technology updates.

Currently Maine has 776 registered apprentices and 105 registered apprenticeship programs, serving 173 employers. With implementation of the Apprenticeship State Expansion Grant, the Maine Apprenticeship Program plans to enroll an additional 450 apprentices as well as develop new apprenticeship programs in targeted sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and construction.

"Since 1941, the Maine Apprenticeship Program has given Mainers the opportunity to learn and earn at the same time," said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. Expanding and diversifying Maines apprenticeship system by increasing the number of participants and available occupations will help businesses meet the demand for skilled workers while offering workers higher wages and better employment outcomes.

Providing technical assistance to employers and assisting in the development of curricula and standards of apprenticeship is a primary focus of the grant. Staff will facilitate and nurture sponsors connection to Maines CareerCenters to assist with recruitment, screening and enrollment of registered apprentices from a wide variety of job seekers, including underrepresented populations.

For more information on the Maine Apprenticeship Program, please visit our website: www.maine.gov/labor/jobs_training/apprenticeship.html

The Maine Department of Labor is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.