PRAIRIE VIEW, TX – The Rural Workforce Academy, a program coordinated by the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences’ Cooperative Extension Program celebrated National Apprenticeship Week for the second year, filled with a week of nonstop events for current and potential apprentices looking to jump-start a new career or learn valuable skills in partnership with the college.  

From November 14 – November 19, apprentices, employers, PVAMU extension agents, and representatives from the Department of Labor came together to learn from one another and offer networking opportunities for current and future students. By the end of the week, those interested in apprenticeship courses had the opportunity to meet and connect with employers and fellow apprentices, turn in job applications, sign up for TRWA’s program and even engage in speed interviews.  

Led by CEP Workforce Specialist Laura Jones, the week began with opening ceremonies in five different counties, extolling the value of the week celebrating an industry rarely in the public conscience. 

“It was a great week,” Jones said. “We stepped it up a couple of notches and we are really excited about that.” 

Guests in each county were also able to speak with apprentices about their experiences. Tuesday held more meet and greets at the PVAMU Northwest Campus which also included an Industry Council Meeting. On Wednesday, guests toured the CAHS Meat Science Center led by Lea Ann Kinman, Ph.D., and learn more about the All Around Butcher Apprenticeship available through the program. Thursday included an Employer Luncheon and Small Business Information Workshop at the Acres Home Chamber of Commerce, where they heard from representatives from the employment agency, Workforce Solutions, and other extension agents. 

“People weren’t aware of all these services being available so we introduced them to it,” Jones said. “All of our events except for one were connected to Workforce Solutions and their offices. That partnership has become especially important to us. We are working to make sure that people in all those counties know the resources that are available via Workforce Solutions as well as vocational rehab. Several people received and qualified for services just in that week.” 

Friday was a full day of events for attendees. There was an in-person job fair, a fashion show, an apprentice meet-and-greet, job signing opportunities, and more. CEP Executive Associate Director Carolyn Williams, Ph.D., and USDOL Apprenticeship Training Representative Jon Lavin spoke to guests about the importance of apprenticeship and the myriad ways people can benefit from the industry, and how accessible it can be.  

TRWA was created to be a free resource during the pandemic mainly for rural residents looking for new opportunities due to the stressed workforce. The program has since grown over the past two years, graduating over 300 apprentices. It was certified as an apprenticeship program by the DOL in February 2021. And the program is moving with the changing times, according to Jones.  

“Apprenticeships before the pandemic didn’t really have options to train remotely,” Jones said. “Everything had to be hands-on. But now, it is a job seeker’s market; they can demand what they want now, and they will get it. The pandemic has changed everything, and the demographics can change the approach.” 

Jones hopes to grow TRWA’s celebration of National Apprenticeship Week each year. In 2023, she plans to affirm the program’s commitment to an all-around education, by including the apprentices’ support system within the curriculum. 

“We want to add more awareness for their families,” Jones said. “It is hard to be in this program without the buy-in from your family. Without it, it is harder to work. It’s important for apprentices embarking on this journey to include the family.” 

Pascale Mondesir
Communications Specialist
pamondesir@pvamu.edu