The U.S. Department of Labor has launched an online dialogue with stakeholders to increase access to registered apprenticeships for job seekers in underrepresented communities.

Conversation and ideas shared will help develop and shape future registered apprenticeship programs and funding opportunities, and foster diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

“The U.S. Department of Labor encourages stakeholders to share their ideas and best practices for confronting equity challenges in registered apprenticeships so we can begin to address the occupational segregation and underrepresentation that people have faced for far too long,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Angela Hanks. “This dialogue is part of an ongoing discussion we need to have to help us diversify and expand the apprenticeship system so that employers, labor partners, workers and students from all communities understand and benefit from registered apprenticeships.” 

Co-hosted by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, Office of Disability Employment Policy, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, Wage and Hour Division and Women’s Bureau, the discussion will close Nov. 29, 2021.

The online dialogue furthers the department’s efforts to promote the value of inclusive apprenticeships for job seekers consistent with the aims of National Apprenticeship Week 2021. The dialogue will gather ideas for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility using the following themes:

• Fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in registered apprenticeships to increase access by diverse and underrepresented population groups and reduce barriers to entry and success.
• Forming partnerships between government and industry to support diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in registered apprenticeships, including for high-growth, high-demand fields.
• Promoting outreach on advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in registered apprenticeships, including by using social media.