Alexandra Simon and Taylor White at New America report that across the country, States are demonstrating greater recognition of the promise of youth Apprenticeship as a strategy to expand access to high-quality training connected to jobs and leading to promising careers. Although Youth Apprenticeships exist in nearly all 50 States, most lack the coordinated strategies and infrastructure necessary for large-scale, sustainable growth. However, two recent reports from State Leaders in Utah and Delaware highlight a promising new trend: States are moving from experimentation to system-building in Youth Apprenticeship. Below we unpack key findings from the two reports and what they reveal about the challenges and opportunities in developing Statewide Youth Apprenticeship infrastructure. Both reports underscore the vital role of State Leadership - Legislative and Gubernatorial, in advancing this work. They affirm the importance of cross-sector cooperation in transitioning from pilot to policy through the integration of Youth Apprenticeship throughout State Systems, including both K-through-12 and higher education. In Utah, the first step into system-building is now underway. Delaware is leveraging prior investments in Delaware Pathways and Youth Apprenticeship to build out a State System. The continued alignment of State Leadership and cross-sector partners will be the driving force for both States in turning their Youth Apprenticeship visions into lasting Statewide systems.

To Read This Apprenticeship And Training Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: From Pilots to Policy: States Scaling Youth Apprenticeship