The U.S. Department of Labor has introduced the American Manufacturing Apprenticeship Incentive Fund, in collaboration with the Arkansas Department of Commerce. This initiative aims to enhance advanced manufacturing Registered Apprenticeships across the nation. The department has allocated $35.8 million for this cooperative agreement, which will encourage employers to create or expand apprenticeship programs through a pay-for-performance model, offering $3,500 for each new apprentice hired.
"President Trump and his entire administration are fully committed to ushering in a new age of American manufacturing," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. She emphasized that the partnership with Arkansas will help small- and mid-sized manufacturing firms develop apprenticeships that meet industry demands for skilled labor.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders added, "Every pathway to career success looks different... President Trump understands that strong apprenticeship programs are essential." She highlighted Arkansas' commitment to investing in education and workforce development as key to competing nationally.
The program is managed by the Employment and Training Administration and aligns with America's Talent Strategy and several executive orders from President Trump on expanding Registered Apprenticeships. The department is also seeking input on Registered Apprenticeship Industry Intermediaries as part of its efforts to broaden these programs. More information can be found at Apprenticeship.gov.
