The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has announced a fresh $9 million funding round to expand the state’s apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship ecosystem. The investment, distributed through the GAINS and PACE grant programs, aims to cultivate a more “skilled and adaptable” workforce for the modern economy.
Since the beginning of the Murphy Administration, New Jersey has funneled over $110 million into work-based learning, resulting in a 159% increase in Registered Apprenticeship programs.
The Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) program receives the lion’s share of the funding, with $6 million dedicated to creating high-growth career pathways.
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Focus: Sectors such as K-12 teaching, nursing, and green energy.
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Support: Employers can receive up to $12,000 per apprentice to offset training and 50% of wages over 52 weeks.
- Wage Floor: New apprentices must earn a starting wage of at least $18 per hour.
The Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) program is designed to bridge the gap for individuals facing economic hurdles. This $3 million allocation helps prepare participants for entry into Registered Apprenticeships or post-secondary education.
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Barrier Removal: Funding can be used for childcare, transportation, and GED attainment.
- Partnership: Programs must partner with at least one Registered Apprenticeship sponsor to ensure a direct pipeline to employment.
PACE Important Dates:
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TA Workshops: Jan 22 and Feb 18 (1:00 PM)
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Letter of Intent Due: March 6 (Noon)
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Application Due: March 13 (Noon)
GAINS Important Dates:
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TA Workshops: Feb 19 and March 25 (1:00 PM)
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Letter of Intent Due: April 10 (Noon)
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Application Due: April 17 (Noon)
Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo emphasized that these grants are “pivotal” for career mobility, noting that GAINS has been particularly successful for women and people of color, with female participation rising significantly under current policies.
