News

Governor announces $12.3M for apprenticeship programs

Governor announces $12.3M for apprenticeship programs

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


LEWISTON, Maine (AP) Fourteen organizations will receive $12.3 million in grants to expand apprentice programs, Gov. Janet Mills announced Friday.

The funding is expected to provide more than 3,000 Mainers with apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship opportunities, more than doubling the number of apprentices, the governor said.

“These grants reflect the state’s commitment to making strategic investments that benefit both those who are searching for good-paying careers, and employers needing a pipeline of skilled workers,” said Laura Fortman, commissioner of the Maine Department of Labor.

The announcement was made at Lewiston Adult Education, one of the grant recipients. The funding is comprised of $11 million from the governor’s Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan and $1.3 million from U.S. Department of Labor.

Jennifer McKenna, chair of the Maine Apprenticeship Council, said apprentice programs are a win for employees and employers.

“Apprenticeship is a career opportunity for all Mainers, it is an earn-while-you-learn career pathway that connects real people with highly skilled jobs that exist now,” she said.

Latest Headlines

2 hours ago in Local

Against the Odds: Maine’s Orchards Pull Off a Top-Quality Apple Harvest

Next year's apples might be a problem, but for now enjoy Maine's apples

19 hours ago in Local

New report suggests electrical component to blame for foam spill at Brunswick airport

A new report says a faulty electrical component is likely to blame for the massive spill of toxic firefighting foam last year at the Brunswick Executive Airport.

19 hours ago in Local

Boy struck by vehicle at Millinocket crosswalk

A boy was taken by Life Flight to the hospital with serious injuries after he was hit by a vehicle in Millinocket.

20 hours ago in Local

Police ask for information leading to missing Burlington woman

Police are asking the public to help them locate a missing Burlington woman.

21 hours ago in National, Trending

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is sentenced to over 4 years in prison

Sean 'Diddy' Combs was sentenced Friday to 4 years and 2 months in prison in case involving sex workers, violence and "freak-offs."