Branco continues to lead the industry in trade apprenticeship programs, helping to develop new talent and better the surrounding community. For three years now, Branco has been partnering with Crowder College to jointly administer their Carpentry Apprenticeship Program. This pioneering collaboration was the first of its kind in the United States, and its success will surely create positive waves across the industry. With this unique program, students can gain real-world experience and training while at the same time earning college credit. While Crowder College has had a Carpentry Apprenticeship Program since 1993, Branco’s involvement has brought it to another level with their experience and insight.
As of now, 62% of firms are having difficulty filling important skilled trade positions, with 74% predicting a shortfall of qualified skilled trade workers in the coming years. Offering apprenticeship programs is an important piece of the puzzle for attracting skilled tradespeople and developing their talent. As the Baby Boomer population retires and Gen Z enters the job marketplace, programs like this will help to attract the right talents.
Our focus in the construction industry should be highlighting the advantages of apprenticeship to those entering the job marketplace. Among other things, those advantages include real-world experience, networking advantages, and the decreased likelihood of unmanageable student debt. Apprenticeship programs are on the rise, with bipartisan support in Washington DC. With eighty-three percent of Americans supporting increased government spending on apprenticeship programs, the future looks bright.
Partnerships such as Branco’s continuing work with Crowder College can help to show the public the advantage of these programs and attract the talent this industry needs to continue thriving. Branco is happy to help pave the way for the future of our industry, and build careers while we build our community.
