Montana Sees Record Growth in Apprenticeship Opportunities

In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, Governor Greg Gianforte and the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) have announced a significant increase in apprenticeship opportunities across the state. According to a new report, the number of Montanans enrolled in active apprenticeships reached a record high of 3,150 at the end of September 2024, marking a 25% growth over the past five years.

Governor Gianforte celebrated the milestone, noting, “During National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating the progress we’ve made in empowering Montanans with in-demand skills and helping employers find the workers they need. A college degree may not be for everyone, and now more than ever before, hardworking Montanans have the opportunity to thrive in a career across a wide variety of industries.”

The report highlights that the first nine months of 2024 saw the start of 770 new apprenticeships, and more than 680 Montana businesses offered apprenticeship programs, both of which set new records. In 2023, Montana added 1,100 new apprenticeships, and 45 counties participated in registered apprenticeship programs.

The fastest growing sectors for apprenticeships include health care, industrial engineering, and health education. Notably, the Montana Department of Labor & Industry has created new programs in fields experiencing workforce shortages, including a registered nurse apprenticeship program.

“Thanks to the pro-jobs policies enacted by Governor Gianforte and the legislature, more Montanans are working today than ever before,” said Commissioner Sarah Swanson. “This success comes with unique workforce challenges, but the Registered Apprenticeship Program helps solve those challenges by combining practical, on-the-job skills training with formal instruction, ensuring workers earn nationally recognized credentials while remaining in Montana.”

Governor Gianforte has made apprenticeships a key priority during his time in office. A significant change in apprenticeship rules, supported by the governor, took effect in 2022, allowing a journeyman to supervise two apprentices instead of just one. This adjustment has enabled more apprentices to enter the workforce while maintaining safety and training standards.

In addition, the governor implemented the Montana Trades Education Credit (MTEC) in 2021, which provides employers with tax credits for employee education and training. The MTEC was nearly doubled in 2023, further supporting the state’s workforce development goals.

This record growth in apprenticeship opportunities reflects Montana’s continued commitment to expanding career pathways and meeting the needs of both workers and employers.

By: Big Sky Headlines staff