2025 SC Education + Business Summit

Join us for an insightful session at the 2025 Education + Business Summit, where we will explore the critical role of apprenticeship programs in enhancing career readiness within Career and Technical Education (CTE). This session, tailored for educators, industry stakeholders, and policymakers, will highlight the importance of innovative apprenticeship models that prepare students for successful careers in high-demand fields.

Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the following:

1. The Apprenticeship Framework: We will provide a detailed overview of the apprenticeship model, including its structure, benefits, and how it integrates classroom learning with hands-on experience. Participants will understand how apprenticeships are designed to meet the needs of both students and employers.

2. Early Education Career Institute (EECI) Case Study: Leveraging our experience as an Apprenticeship Ambassador and as a US Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor, we will share best practices from the Early Education Career Institute. This includes our approach to training future Early Childhood Educators through structured apprenticeships, which combine academic instruction with practical work experience in real-world settings.

3. Pathways to Diverse Careers: Attendees will learn about the varied roles in high-demand sectors like Community Health Aid and Information Technology Help Desk. We will discuss how apprenticeship pathways can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of these occupations, ensuring students acquire relevant skills aligned with industry standards.

4. National Association of ECE Apprentices: As the curator of the National Association of Early Childhood Education (ECE) Apprentices, which has rapidly grown to over 400 members within its first year, we will present strategies for building strong networks and communities around apprenticeship programs. Participants will learn how to create and maintain connections within their local and national ecosystems to foster collaboration and resource sharing.

5. Strategies for Successful Implementation: We will offer actionable insights on how CTE providers can effectively implement apprenticeship programs within their curricula. This includes addressing barriers, securing funding, engaging industry partners, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

6. Evaluating Outcomes and Impact: Finally, we will discuss methods for assessing the effectiveness of apprenticeship programs, including tracking student outcomes, employer engagement, and overall program sustainability. Attendees will learn how to gather and analyze data to continually improve their apprenticeship offerings.

Takeaways:

By the end of this session, participants will leave with:

- A clear understanding of the apprenticeship model and its relevance to CTE.
- Practical tools and strategies to develop and implement effective apprenticeship programs in various sectors.
- Insights into networking and collaboration opportunities through the National Association of ECE Apprentices.
- Resources and contacts within the apprenticeship landscape to support their initiatives.

Join us to discover how leveraging apprenticeships can not only transform educational pathways but also significantly enhance the workforce readiness of the next generation!