Apprenticeship Advantage is a targeted investment that aims to enhance the skills of the local workforce and meet the region’s labor demands to ensure the resilience of Harris County. Originally funded by ARPA, the program will expand the number of industries offering apprenticeship programs and increase the number of slots that existing apprenticeship programs can support.
Harris County is working with vendors to create and expand opportunities for the US Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) in traditional and high-growth emerging industries within the county such as construction, public transportation, technology and live entertainment industries. The initiative specifically targets increasing access to apprenticeship opportunities for groups traditionally underrepresented in apprenticeships, including but not limited to underemployed, unemployed, dislocated workers, opportunity youth, people of color, women, and those without college degrees. The vendors also provide wraparound support services to increase the likelihood of program completion and employment. The program began in early 2023 and has already served 1,850 Harris County residents.
FY2027 Apprenticeship Advantage Program
The FY2027 Apprenticeship Advantage Program, funded by Harris County General Fund, will build on the program's success in expanding access to high-quality workforce training and career opportunities for Harris County residents.
In partnership with the Texas Gulf Coast Labor Federation, the program will expand pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship readiness opportunities through six programs designed to prepare participants for entry into Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs). Graduates will receive preferred consideration or direct admission to the respective Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATCs) participating in the program, creating a clearer pathway to skilled trades careers, industry-recognized credentials, and long-term economic mobility. Please click here to read more and apply.
In partnership with NPower, the program will provide a pathway for individuals to launch and advance their careers in technology, guiding participants from foundational tech training to advanced, expert-level skills. At no cost to participants, the program offers in-demand technical and artificial intelligence (AI) training, industry-recognized certifications, hands-on experience, and ongoing career support to help graduates succeed in the evolving technology workforce. Participants can choose from five pathways aligned with industry needs: Tech Fundamentals; AI Prompting and Power Automation; Cybersecurity; Networking and Systems Administration; and Cloud Computing. Through this comprehensive approach, the program aims to expand access to technology careers and prepare a skilled workforce for the jobs of today and tomorrow. To apply, please call NPower Houston at 832-975-0390, or email [email protected].
Looking for a job? This free Harris County tech training program could earn you up to $100K a year
Npower, Harris County team up in $1.8 million project to train veterans for jobs paying nearly $100K