The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has launched a new initiative to award college credit to residents who complete building trades Registered Apprenticeship programs, according to a Tuesday press release. LEO, the state’s skilled trades unions, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) and the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA) will work together to build statewide accreditation agreements between the trades and community colleges to award college credit for registered apprenticeship training.

The College Credit for Apprenticeship initiative will allow apprentices to earn college credit for the hands-on training they complete through their skilled trade programs statewide. These credits can then be applied toward an associate degree or technical certificate, helping apprentices continue their education, expand their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. This effort builds on existing local agreements between community colleges and trade unions that award credit for prior learning to ensure this opportunity is available to trades workers across the state.

“Registered Apprenticeships are a powerful way for Michigan workers to earn while they learn, gaining real-world skills and credentials,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin in the press release. “Now, with the College Credit for Apprenticeship initiative, apprentices can also earn college credit for their on-the-job training, opening doors to degrees and certifications that strengthen careers, support employers and continue building a skilled, adaptable workforce across Michigan.”

“Awarding academic credit for Registered Apprenticeship students makes it more affordable and attainable for them to achieve a college degree or certificate, and ultimately, a well-paying career,” said Michigan Workforce Development Board Chair Jeff Donofrio in the press release. “This is another step on the right path to establishing more seamless connections between work experience and higher education – a path that will boost opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds.”

As an industry-driven, earn-while-you-learn training model, registered apprenticeships give workers paid, hands-on experience alongside classroom instruction, leading to a nationally recognized credential upon completion. Awarding credit for this on-the-job learning will create opportunities for apprentices to develop additional skills and advance their careers.