Research on Inclusive, Demand-Driven Apprenticeship Models in the US
GAN Global was awarded a grant from the JP Morgan Chase Foundation to explore US companies’ perspectives of and engagement with apprenticeships, particularly on its potential to scale in white-collar roles, ability to uplift vulnerable communities, the role of intermediaries, and challenges for employers in adoption and scaling. GAN surveyed over 100 employers in the US, in partnership with Emerson College, and conducted focus group sessions that informed the production of a final report.
Timeline
2023-2025
Partners & funders
Emerson College
Partner
ACS
Partner
GAN USA
Partner
JP Morgan Chase Foundation
Donor
The challenge
Systemic challenges in the US prevent the expansion of existing apprenticeship, participating and registration of apprenticeship programs, especially in regions with large and diverse populations. High-income countries, such as the UK and other European nations, have had success in improving access to white-collar apprenticeship programs for low-income and diverse worker populations. As such, apprenticeships and work-based learning are opportunities for the US to address inequality and skills mismatches.
What we did
We developed a research piece to provide US-based guidance on how to expand inclusive apprenticeship programs in a variety of sectors. We found strong momentum with over 98% of companies surveyed planning to continue or expand their existing programs and 85% of employers intending to expand in roles, such as project management and operations, where career progression is possible.
Outcomes
The project advocates for employers to expand access to apprenticeship programs, while encouraging policymakers to improve funding awareness and increase more investments in new industries. The research is available to organizations in the US seeking to improve apprenticeship policy, increase program uptake and mitigate challenges in delivery.
Evidence & Outputs
Our unwavering focus remains on developing high-quality apprenticeship programs that connect apprentices to the dignity of work.
Nicholas Morgan
ACS President and GAN Global Board Member
We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in global history, where the key to unlocking opportunities lies in a concerted effort to expand workforce participation and skills through approaches that offer a win-win for both businesses and workers.
Nicholas Morgan
ACS President and GAN Global Board Member
Apprenticeships are essential to shaping the future of work. The rise of AI-driven data center roles in automation, energy optimization, and predictive maintenance, for instance, presents a unique chance to expand U.S. apprenticeship programs. By aligning workforce policies with these emerging demands, we can open pathways into high-growth careers while bolstering America’s competitiveness in advanced technology infrastructure.
Dr. Mardy Leathers
Vice President, Adaptive Construction Solutions
