Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft pushed back against a U.S. Department of Labor’s proposed rule that would undermine state apprenticeship programs.
On March 18, Ashcroft signed a formal objection to the proposal, along with leaders from 16 other states, including neighboring Oklahoma, Iowa, and Tennessee. The proposed rule, titled “National Apprenticeship System Enhancements,” includes “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” mandates that could compromise apprenticeship programs to further political agendas.
“The program is working great in Missouri,” Ashcroft said. “Why would we want federal government oversight and bureaucratic mandates to crush a thriving state program?”
For decades, Missouri has been expanding its apprenticeship program with innovative ways to help students secure jobs and encourage local employers to train potential full-time employees. With over 20,000 apprentice opportunities, Missouri currently ranks third in the nation for completed apprenticeships, fourth for new apprentices, and sixth for active apprentices.
Apprenticeship programs offer alternatives to the four-year college route while still providing the opportunity for rewarding, high-paying jobs in fields such as construction, plumbing, transportation, healthcare, and hospitality.
“Through an apprenticeship, the student can earn and learn at the same time—you’re not sacrificing employment to focus on education,” Ashcroft said. “This dual approach allows you to gain skills and qualifications for long-term employment while still earning a decent wage to cover expenses.”
Missouri has introduced apprenticeships for 97 new occupations this year. For more information on the Missouri program, visit the Department of Higher Education website.
(Photo by Rudi Keller – Missouri Independent)
