Delaware’s New Grant Program to Help Young People Jump Start Their Careers
The Delaware Department of Education is launching a new youth apprenticeship readiness program. The US Department of Labor has made this possible by assisting the program with a $.25 million grant. “The overall intent is to ensure that students are learning on the job site and in the classroom as they progress into high paying careers,” said director of career and technical education for the Delaware DOE Luke Rhine.
Rhine stated the program is divided into three main categories; construction, hospitality, and IT industries. He says that construction is a crucial industry especially here in Delaware. “It’s an industry that – as we’ve moved through the COVID experience – has remained strong and has continued to grow and create great career ladders and career opportunities for adults,” said Rhine.
COVID-19 has also proved the importance of reinventing business constructs, like with the hospitality and tourism industry.
And lastly, it’s apparent the information technology (IT) industry is growing rapidly. Cyber security and networking is a crucial aspect of any business. “This is a huge growth area in the state of Delaware in the development of post secondary apprenticeship development and the youth registered apprenticeship programs,” said Rhine.
The new Delaware grant program will help pay students a living wage, all the while preparing them to start their careers. “What makes the program really unique is that the student will actually start the registered apprenticeship program while still in high school. So that means while they are in high school they will be earning both high school diploma as well as industry credentials onto a secondary space,” said Rhine.
Industries hit hardest by COVID-19 have been the main focus of this Delaware grant program. “It’s the relationship between these industry associations and educational institutions that will really help youth to connect with employers,” said Rhine.
For more information, or questions and concerns about the grant, click here.
