New Jersey Business reports Thomas Edison State University (TESU) and the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to continue a first-of-its-kind, Statewide Apprenticeship Degree Initiative aimed at expanding access to Higher Education for New Jersey’s Apprentices. Funded by the NJDOL, the three-year, $5 million initiative will support the development of college-credit pathways for Registered Apprenticeship Programs, aligning workforce training with Higher Education credentials. This agreement follows a $849 million Apprenticeship Evaluation and Scholarship Program with the DOL that has been successfully completed. “This collaboration is a powerful step forward for New Jersey’s workforce,” TESU President Dr. Merodie Hancock said. “By recognizing the value of workplace learning and linking Apprenticeships to college degrees, we’re not only expanding opportunity for individuals - we’re building a smarter, more adaptable workforce for our State.” TESU’s role will include evaluating Registered Apprenticeship Programs, creating multi-credential pathways, enrolling students and supporting them through customized educational and life-coaching services. The University will also partner with high schools, Pre-Apprenticeship Programs and Trade Unions to foster strong pipelines into both Apprenticeship and Higher Education.

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