WRTP | BIG STEP President & CEO Lindsay Blumer was featured on Workforce on the Mic, presented by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP).
In the episode, “A BIG STEP Forward: Preparing Talent for Apprenticeship Success,” Lindsay discusses the importance of apprentice readiness in today’s climate with Alexis Franks, Director of Membership at NAWDP.
A key topic they highlight is the value of apprenticeships. With high-demand careers and living expenses on the rise, earn-and-learn models allow apprentices to build industry skills while receiving wages. With this approach, someone’s career goals do not need to be put on hold for their educational goals, as they go hand in hand.
Lindsay also shares how WRTP | BIG STEP is bridging the gap to connect job seekers with successful, family-supporting careers. Through apprenticeship-readiness programs, the organization acts as a “step” before entering the workforce.
WRTP | BIG STEP’s hands-on training opportunities allow participants to earn credentials and try a variety of skills across different sectors. This is especially beneficial for youth or those who are unsure which career path they would like to take.
Pre-apprenticeship programs also benefit retention; employers gain qualified, career-ready individuals who are more confident and committed, having explored a multitude of occupations before their apprenticeship to choose the one best suited for them.
“…with apprenticeship, we tend to see people stay much longer with companies because they feel like they’re invested in, and they are, right?” Lindsay says. “You’re investing that money and those resources in an employee that you believe in, and the employee believes in that company.”
To strengthen Wisconsin’s talent pipeline, it’s important that job seekers feel supported in their career path. WRTP | BIG STEP provides all participants with the resources, connections, and skills to succeed in a trades apprenticeship.
Learn more and listen to the full episode on NAWDP’s website.