House study examines expanded apprenticeships for aerospace and construction
CareerTech leaders proposed giving high school students more time for workplace training as employers seek additional workers.
Oklahoma lawmakers examined ways to expand aerospace and construction apprenticeships during a Sept. 8 House Postsecondary Education Committee study requested by Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso.
CareerTech State Director Brent Haken asked lawmakers to consider allowing high school students to spend up to half the school day in approved apprenticeship settings, according to a House release. He said the current two-hour daily limit on internships can make participation difficult for employers.
Haken said demand for technology center programs increased 40% since the pandemic, leaving students on waiting lists.
“We have every sector of industry that is asking for more workers, and so that’s what we’re up against,” Haken said.
CareerTech officials said the agency helps employers establish apprenticeship programs at no cost. They described apprenticeships as structured training for employees businesses intend to develop over the long term.
Other proposals included funding regional apprenticeship coordinators, expanding technology center capacity, and allowing qualified workplace mentors to supervise students in coordination with education providers. Industry presenters included representatives from Boeing, NORDAM, Quantum Space, and construction businesses.
The discussion outlined potential legislative and funding changes. The proposals were recommendations presented during an interim study.
