Helping States Accelerate Apprenticeship Expansion
States everywhere are reimagining apprenticeship by weaving apprenticeship programs into education, workforce development, and economic systems, and broadening their reach into new industries. State apprenticeship leaders aren’t just supporting programs, they’re building ecosystems that unlock opportunity for employers, workers, and entire communities.
At AIR, we partner with all 50 states to align systems, design high-quality programs, and launch initiatives with lasting impact. From healthcare to IT to advanced manufacturing, we help turn bold ideas into real-world success.
What We Do
Our work addresses the top priorities of modern apprenticeship leaders. We build systems that are accountable, collaborative, and sustainable. Our team helps states design apprenticeship programs that align with employer needs, foster strong partnerships, and create clear pathways to success for workers.
Through technical assistance, strategy support, and research, AIR helps states expand and strengthen apprenticeship systems.
Core Services
- Strategy & Partnerships
We help states launch cross-sector initiatives, bringing together business, education, workforce, and economic development systems.
- Training & Capacity Building
We provide coaching for state leaders, self-paced online courses for employers, mentors, and apprentices, plus training for workforce boards and community colleges.
- Program Design & Implementation
We offer end-to-end support—from program design across industries, to improving selection and assessment, to using AI tools—to streamline development.
- Research & Analysis
We execute return-on-investment studies, state system assessments, and evaluations of apprentice outcomes via AIR’s journey framework.
- Technical Assistance Resources
We create practical tools—guides, case studies, communication materials, and internal manuals—to support state apprenticeship teams.
Learn more about AIR's work in apprenticeships and work-based learning.
Our Impact
For over 15 years, AIR has helped states and partners grow apprenticeship through smart strategies, expert guidance, and solutions with measurable results. Below are highlights of our recent work.
State Apprenticeship Expansion Project
As a national technical assistance provider for the U.S. Department of Labor, we’ve supported every state and territory with coaching, peer learning, and training to embed apprenticeship in state workforce strategies.
New Jersey Apprenticeship Technical Assistance Collaborative
Working with the New Jersey Community College Consortium, AIR conducted ecosystem assessments, engaged stakeholders, and provided targeted assistance to spur statewide apprenticeship growth.
Massachusetts Apprenticeship Career Pathways Project
AIR collaborated with Massachusetts to build an Apprenticeship Career Pathways Framework and sector guides that integrate apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs.
EmployIndy
We supported EmployIndy in Indianapolis in launching a regional hub, expanding nontraditional apprenticeship occupations, aligning talent pipelines, and creating metrics for progress.
