On February 18, 2022, the CNMI Apprenticeship State Expansion (ASE) Program was approved for another year by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. The no-cost extension was awarded for performance until June 30, 2023. Initially, the grant awarded to the CNMI Department of Labor-Workforce Investment Agency Division would have ended on June 30 of this year.
The CNMI ASE Program’s main focus is to provide the business community opportunities to grow and expand through an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce. Employers are the foundation of every apprenticeship program and are responsible for creating opportunities for current employees to advance their skills and knowledge in any given occupation through on-the-job learning and related technical instruction. The end result of each program offers apprentices a nationally recognized credential from the U.S. Department of Labor. A registered apprenticeship program will mean that employers are able to tell prospective employees, customers, and suppliers that they believe in their employees and that they are their most important asset.
Secretary of Labor, Vicky Benavente, said, “With the extension award, the CNMI Apprenticeship State Expansion Program will help many businesses create a pipeline of skilled workers for the future.” Benavente added, “The CNMI ASE Program will play a key role in many businesses, especially those who are reliant on CW1 workers. Many businesses are looking for ways to sustain their local workforce. The apprenticeship program will be able to help employers train their employees to increase their skills and knowledge to fill the gaps left behind by CW1 workers.”
The original ASE Program grant was awarded on June 25, 2019. The apprenticeship program, however, faced many challenges from the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yutu and the effects of the current pandemic. The CNMI Department of Labor is looking forward to working with all interested employers to help them with their workforce needs. For more information, contact the WIOA office at tel. (670) 664-1712 or email apprenticeship@dol.gov.mp.
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