The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) announced today that Montana has been selected to participate in the National Governors Association (NGA) Policy Academy on Youth Apprenticeship, a national initiative aimed at expanding high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for students and young adults.
The program, supported by a $50,000 award, will allow Montana to work with national experts, peer states, and local partners to strengthen youth apprenticeship pathways and accelerate efforts to connect young people with in-demand careers.
“This opportunity builds on Governor Greg Gianforte’s 406 JOBS Initiative, which focuses on ensuring Montanans have access to good-paying jobs and employers have the workforce they need to succeed,” said Sarah Swanson, Commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. “Youth apprenticeship opens doors for Montana students while giving employers access to the skilled workforce they need to thrive.”
Through the NGA Policy Academy, Montana will refine its approach to youth apprenticeship, aligning education and training with workforce needs in sectors such as health care, construction, manufacturing, the trades, energy, and information technology.
Montana’s Policy Academy team includes leaders from state workforce agencies, education, business, and tribal communities:
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Crystal Armstrong, Administrator, MT DLI Workforce Services Division
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Jennifer Owen, Executive Director, Montana State Workforce Innovation Board
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Sara Schreiner, Chair, Montana Apprenticeship Advisory Council and Owner of The Sunshine Academy
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Glen Disque, MT DLI State Director of Apprenticeship
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Alicia Doney, MT DLI Tribal Youth Engagement Specialist
Officials say the effort will strengthen collaboration among schools, employers, and community leaders to build clearer pathways for Montana students while addressing workforce shortages across the state.