Governor Laura Kelly made an announcement on Wednesday revealing that a total of $520,000 has been granted to eight different organizations in Kansas. These funds will be dedicated to various projects aimed at attracting and retaining employees, as well as developing the state workforce through registered apprenticeships.
“Governor Laura Kelly emphasized the remarkable achievements of Kansas in job creation and business investment since she took office. The state has received numerous accolades for its exceptional performance in these areas. As a result, there is now a pressing need for skilled workers to fill the growing number of job opportunities. Governor Kelly believes that allocating funds to support apprenticeship programs will further enhance the success Kansas has already achieved.”
The Kansas Department of Commerce administers grants that provide support for existing registered apprenticeship programs. These grants offer assistance in various areas, including technical instruction, on-the-job training, program management, staffing, marketing, outreach, and other related activities.
“Ever since the Kelly-Toland administration took office, our focus has been on bolstering Kansas’ economy by attracting new businesses and fostering the growth of existing ones,” emphasized Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce, David Toland. He added, “We have witnessed a surge in job opportunities in high-demand fields, and these grants will equip businesses with the necessary resources to cultivate and retain a talented and invaluable workforce.”
The recipients of the statewide grant include:
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- Independent Electrical Contractors Association of Kansas – Sedgwick County: $70,886
- Kansas Farm Bureau – Riley County: $70,886
- Kansas Rural Water Association – Nemaha County: $54,170
- Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 441 – Sedgwick County: $70,886
The following individuals and organizations have been awarded regional grants:
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- Northeast – Full Service Chimney, Johnson County: $70,886
- South Central – Textron Aviation, Sedgwick County: $59,400
- South Central – Sheet Metal Workers JATC, Local #29, Sedgwick County: $52,000
- Southeast – Crossland Construction, Cherokee County: $70,886
“This marks the second year in which our office has been empowered to allocate funds specifically for the advancement of apprenticeship programs across Kansas,” stated Shonda Anderson, the director of the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship. She emphasized the significance of these grants in supporting organizations to hire additional instructors, acquire vital training and safety equipment, as well as other educational resources. Anderson believes that these investments play a crucial role in retaining a skilled workforce and fostering sustainable economic growth.”
Brian Burnett, business manager for Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 441 and president of Kansas State Building and Construction Trades, emphasized the current surge in growth within the building and construction trades. He highlighted the significance of grants in fostering the development, preparation, and training of the upcoming skilled craft workers. These grants play a pivotal role in not only benefiting their program, the Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship, but also various other programs throughout the state.
The Office of Registered Apprenticeship is excited to announce the upcoming third annual KANSASWORKS National Apprenticeship Week Summit. This event will take place on November 21 at the Salina Area Airport. To register for the summit, please click here. If you would like to learn more about the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship, you can visit their website here.
