The Technical College System of Georgia celebrates National Apprenticeship Week by recognizing Georgia’s 22 Technical Colleges for each becoming approved Registered Apprenticeship sponsors with the U.S. Department of Labor. Georgia is currently one of the only states in the nation to have their technical college system, in its entirety, serve as apprenticeship sponsors.

“This is a unique moment in Georgia’s workforce, as we are seeing our partners in education working alongside companies to ensure that talented students are trained for in-demand jobs,” said Joe Dan Banker, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Workforce Development at TCSG. “With our 22 technical colleges on board, employers will be supplied with skilled talent to help grow their companies for years to come.”

This announcement follows Governor Deal’s recent proclamation declaring November 12-16, 2018 as “Apprenticeship Week” in Georgia, concurrent with National Apprenticeship Week. Also this week, Unisys Corporation announced its partnership with Augusta Technical College and the U.S. Department of Labor to launch a veteran-focused Registered Apprenticeship program to help bolster a cybersecurity workforce in that region.

"This apprenticeship program presents a way for Unisys to develop and hire cybersecurity talent while also supporting the development and vitality of the Augusta community and assisting military personnel who are making the transition to private sector employment," said Jonathan Goldberger, vice president and general manager, Unisys Security Solutions.” Click here to read the official press release.

WorkSource Georgia, the state’s federally-funded workforce development collaborative, works with regions and companies across the state to develop customized programs to meet hiring needs. Among those programs are Registered Apprenticeships, a work-based training method that combines classroom instruction with formalized on-site, occupation-related training.

Registered Apprentices typically work 30-40 hours per week and receive classroom training through part-time attendance at technical colleges, universities or approved training providers. With more employers seeking this alternative to traditional training models, Georgia has experienced an up-tick in registered apprenticeships, with more than 8,100 active apprentices statewide.

With Georgia’s unemployment rate at 3.7%, the lowest since May 2001, workforce partners are maintaining their momentum in sustaining Georgia as the leading state for business and a top state for career opportunities and advancement.