Last year, Oklahoma Works launched the State’s Work-Based Learning Program, Earn and Learn Oklahoma. This year, we continued work to expand and diversify work-based learning opportunities, including receiving $1.06 million from the U.S. Department of Labor to expand Registered Apprenticeship statewide. In 2019, the number of apprentices employed in Oklahoma increased 16 percent, totaling more than 1,700 apprentices and 100 programs.
Oklahoma Works also awarded $115,000 to ten employers to develop new Registered Apprenticeship Programs that build their talent pipeline, create the skilled workers they need, and develop on-ramps to high-wage, in-demand job opportunities. These awards were announced at the first annual Work-Based Learning Summit that convened 200 employers, educators and partners to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to launch apprenticeships and internships in their organizations.