Officials with the Office of Workforce Development and Community Education at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) recently celebrated the completion of the university’s first Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program by student Shawna Hammon, who completed the program as a Child Care Development Specialist.
The program was a partnership between MSU-WP’s Office of Workforce Development and Community Education and Ozark Action Inc. This program was a pilot program intended to explore the feasibility of registered apprenticeships and help develop a process for MSU-WP to begin offering registered apprenticeships to interested students and employers in the future.
A Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality “earn while you learn” career pathway that combines paid on the job training with classroom instruction. This model allows apprentices to gain practical experience while completing the education and training necessary to prepare for a skilled occupation.
For Hammon, the program provided the opportunity to complete her degree in Child and Family Development while working full-time at Ozark Action’s head start facility.
While completing her apprenticeship, Hammon attended classes at MSU-WP while receiving on-the-job training under the supervision of her mentors, Holly Tucker and Angie Kinder.
The Registered Apprenticeship model also provides a structured path for career advancement. The apprentices are hired at an apprentice-level salary and are guaranteed pay increases during the program. Upon completion, apprentices earn a journeyman’s wage in their selected field.
“Registered Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for businesses to help meet their employment and training needs,” said Trevor Cressman, director of workforce development and community education at MSU-WP. “The opportunity to earn a paycheck while gaining experience and completing education is invaluable for a student.”
MSU-WP’s Office of Workforce Development and Community Education is exploring opportunities to expand Registered Apprenticeships at local businesses. Participating businesses also may be eligible for state and federal incentives.
Training options are flexible and can include training opportunities that may not be available through other workforce training options.
Students or businesses interested in learning more about Registered Apprenticeships can contact the MSU-WP Office of Workforce Development and Community Education at WPWorkforce@MissouriState.edu or 417-255-7784.