S. 2028: Supporting Apprenticeship Colleges Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Supporting Apprenticeship Colleges Act of 2025, aims to enhance and support apprenticeship programs in the construction and manufacturing sectors through funding and grants. The primary focus is on institutions of higher education that sponsor these apprenticeship programs.

Key Provisions

• Community Outreach Grant Program:
  • Grants will be capped at $500,000 for each eligible entity.
  • Grant funds can be used for outreach efforts such as:
    • Educating high school students, parents, and educators about the benefits of apprenticeship programs.
    • Engaging with local businesses to encourage hiring graduates.
    • Collaborating with local workforce development boards to reach nontraditional student populations.
  • Priority will be given to entities that target outreach to underrepresented groups, including rural students, first-generation college students, and minority students.
  • A total of $5 million is authorized for this program for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2030.
• Student Support Grant Program:
  • Grants for activities to expand academic advising services will also be offered similarly, with a cap of $500,000 per eligible entity.
  • Eligible entities can apply for both types of grants.
  • Funds are intended for:
    • Academic advising and professional development services for students in apprenticeship programs.
    • Support services including health counseling and assistance for first-generation college students.
  • Entities receiving grants will need to report on the outcomes and effectiveness of these activities.
  • Another $5 million is authorized for this program for the same fiscal years (2026 to 2030).

Definitions

The bill defines several key terms:

• Construction and Manufacturing-Oriented Apprenticeship College: Institutions that sponsor registered apprenticeship programs in construction and manufacturing.
• Registered Apprenticeship Program: Programs that provide training and coursework leading to recognized credentials in the construction or manufacturing industry.
• Eligible Entity: Refers to a construction and manufacturing-oriented apprenticeship college that can apply for grants under this bill.
• Underrepresented Population: Groups that are not traditionally represented in registered apprenticeship programs.

Funding

The total funding authorized under this bill amounts to $10 million per fiscal year from 2026 through 2030 for the outlined programs, split between community outreach and student support efforts.

Relevant Companies

None found