Harris County Invests $17.6 Million in Apprenticeships to Empower Workers and Connect Underserved Residents to Union Jobs
Harris County is continuing its commitment to building a resilient, future-ready workforce with a new investment of $17.6 million aimed at expanding apprenticeship opportunities for local residents. The funding, which includes $6.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is set to expand the county’s nationally recognized Apprenticeship Advantage program, offering new pathways to well-paid, high-demand jobs.
Launched in February 2023, the Apprenticeship Advantage program was initially funded with a $10.9 million ARPA grant. The program focuses on creating U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) in a variety of industries, from construction and transportation to emerging tech fields. This additional $6.7 million investment will further expand the program, adding over 300 more training slots and increasing the number of industries involved.
“We are expanding opportunities—opportunities to well-paid jobs, opportunities to secure futures, and opportunities to a more resilient local economy,” said Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones. “Harris County is leading in providing equitable access to high-demand industries, from construction and transportation to cutting-edge technology. By partnering with organizations like the Gulf Coast AFL-CIO and NPower, we’re not just building careers, we’re building a stronger community.”
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A Focus on Underserved Communities
The Apprenticeship Advantage program is designed with a clear focus on historically underrepresented groups, including women, people of color, veterans, youth aged 16-24, and individuals without college degrees. The program also works to provide opportunities for high school students through pre-apprenticeship programs, creating pathways for young people to enter the workforce.
“The program has been a game-changer for working families,” said Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis. “Despite our region’s vast prosperity, many working families are struggling to get by because they lack opportunities to get ahead. Thanks to Harris County’s Apprenticeship Advantage program, working people have the opportunities, training, and support they need to build a better life for their families.”
In addition to serving individuals from underserved communities, the program has already made a measurable impact. Since its launch, Apprenticeship Advantage has helped 690 individuals, with 64% of participants coming from Harris County’s most vulnerable areas. Nearly 90% of those who complete the program secure full-time employment, with an average starting salary of $80,000.
Strong Partnerships for Lasting Impact
A key feature of the Apprenticeship Advantage program is its partnerships with local organizations. The Gulf Coast AFL-CIO, which operates 11 union apprenticeship programs, and NPower, a nonprofit focused on tech training for veterans and young adults, are integral to the program’s success. Both organizations help provide participants with the skills and support needed to succeed in industries facing a skills gap.
“Thanks in part to the vision and leadership of our Commissioners Court, union apprenticeships are enrolling more women and people of color than ever before, and almost two-thirds of our apprentices come from low-income households and areas in Harris County,” said Hany Khalil, Executive Director of Gulf Coast AFL-CIO. “We’re breaking the cycle of poverty in Harris County and training the workforce we need to grow and thrive.”
NPower’s Executive Director, Dr. Diana Saenz, echoed the importance of these partnerships, stating, “Apprenticeships are a win-win solution for both Harris County job seekers and the local workforce. NPower Texas ensures our graduates have the competencies, certifications, and support to take advantage of these high-quality employment opportunities. By partnering with NPower, companies gain top tech talent ready to bring in-demand skills coupled with innovation and grit to tackle the needs of the ever-evolving tech landscape.”
(Source: HCP4)Looking Ahead
The new $17.6 million investment aims to expand the Apprenticeship Advantage program to serve 1,200 individuals by 2026. This expansion aligns with the county’s broader goals of fostering a more inclusive economy while addressing critical workforce needs. In recognition of its success, the Apprenticeship Advantage program was highlighted in the White House’s 2023 report, “Playbook: Workforce Investments That Work,” as an example of how local governments can effectively promote workforce development.
“Apprenticeship Advantage is not just about jobs; it’s about building a community,” said Commissioner Briones. “By giving residents the tools to succeed, we’re creating an economic environment where everyone can thrive.”
For more information about apprenticeship opportunities with NPower and Gulf Coast AFL-CIO, visit the Harris County Apprenticeship Advantage program page here.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
