WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Department of Labor announced nearly $1.3 million is available to help more women access quality apprenticeship programs and pursue careers in advanced manufacturing, energy, healthcare, information technology, and transportation, among other industries.
“Women are nearly half of the American workforce, yet make up a fraction of professionals in STEM careers,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. “This administration is committed to increasing women’s participation in STEM by expanding the number of quality apprenticeships across the U.S., including those in high-growth, emerging sectors where apprenticeships have historically been rare.”
The Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations grant program will award $1.294 million to applicants in nontraditional occupations where women represent 25 percent or less of all employees. Grants will be awarded to up to four community-based organizations. Applicants must provide one or more of the following types of technical assistance:
- Developing pre-apprenticeship or nontraditional skills training programs;
- Providing ongoing orientations for employers, unions and workers on creating a successful environment for women to succeed in these careers; and
- Setting up support groups and facilitating networks for women to improve their retention.
