FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 12, 2022) — Kentucky employers who run supply-chain businesses may be eligible for federal incentives of up to $40,000 to launch and/or maintain a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) to meet the growing need for skilled workers in supply-chain automation. Employers interested in learning about the program are invited to attend a free webinar on July 19 or July 27.
During the webinar presented by the Kentucky Office of Employer and Apprenticeship Services (OEAS) and the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) industry intermediary Supply Chain Automation Workforce Hub, Kentucky employers in the supply-chain industry can learn about incentives and assistance available to help businesses reap financial rewards for starting and/or maintaining a Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Through the partnership with the Hub, employers may be eligible for $1,000 per apprentice and up to $40,000 for each sponsor/employer to help pay to design and start a RAP to meet the critical demand for talent in the supply-chain industry. A minimum of two registered apprentices are required. The funds can be used for various expenses, such as tuition, classroom education, online training, training equipment, tools and curricula development.
To attend one of the webinars to learn more about partnerships, incentives and support for a program, register at the following:
July 19, 1-2 p.m. EST, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIpcuihrT4iG9PXxDg-Yp3pTNrm_YTVcHbf
July 27, 11 a.m. – noon EST, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIldOiorTMtGdM9z0CqE2NVbcaRxMb5NxcQ
If you cannot attend, but are interested in the program or have questions, please email workforce@ky.gov. For more information on the Hub, please visit https://scworkforcehub.com/ or email scaworforcehub@mahattanstrategy.com.
Registered Apprenticeship Programs Information
RAPs are an industry-driven training model validated by DOL that allows employers to train workers to meet their unique needs. A RAP is a talent development strategy; apprentices participate in structured on-the-job training and related technical instruction, receive mentorship from experienced workers, and attain a national industry-recognized portable credential. The White House, through DOL funding, is committed to expanding RAPs in critical industry sectors like supply chain automation that have not traditionally used RAPs to meet employer and sector needs.
What Is Supply Chain Automation?
There is a growing need for skilled workers in supply chain automation which includes the use of technologies to improve efficiencies, connect applications and streamline processes within supply chain operations including mechatronics, logistics, transportation and warehousing. According to the Economic Policy Institute, more than 72,000 jobs in these fields have been created since February 2020, and an additional 770,000 jobs are expected to be created through 2025.
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