The City of Phoenix is planning to expand its apprenticeship program and make it permanent.
In January 2024, the City partnered with local private businesses to create apprenticeship opportunities to expand the regional workforce. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company was the first private partner, and multiple other businesses have since joined the program.
The expansion comes as the second phase of the program recently wrapped up. The Phoenix Economic Development and the Arts Subcommittee approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Maricopa Community Colleges and Northern Arizona University to provide educational opportunities for the programs.
An additional MOU allows the Community and Economic Development Department to explore other sponsor companies.
Related documents found 93% of apprentices remain employed after completing apprenticeship programs throughout the nation. Documents went on to say every dollar spent on apprenticeship programs generates a return of $1.47.
Each contract approves a maximum of $650K in spending; however, City funds are not expected to be used. Funding will come from employer agreements, state funding and federal grants.
Contracts between the City and private employers are slated to last for three years and can be extended for an additional two. The contract between the City and the colleges does not specify a time frame. (Source)