Together with local labor unions and a South Jersey cultivator, the group will launch one of the nation’s first efforts dedicated to equipping entrepreneurs with the skills needed to establish themselves in the state’s legalized marketplace.

“Apprenticeships are critical to building our workforce and allowing participants to develop the skills they need to obtain meaningful employment,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “By creating invaluable opportunities for underserved individuals, the apprenticeships facilitated by these grant programs are making our state stronger and fairer – furthering my Administration’s efforts to make New Jersey the state of opportunity for everyone.”

For 11 weeks, the team worked with The Michaels Organization and local subcontractors to learn both soft and hard skills, including hands-on experience in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and roofing.

The truck driver-heavy trade option makes for the 19th offered – and the seventh added this year – through the Associated Builders and Contractors New Jersey Apprenticeship Education and Training Fund.

Seven businesses and organizations will benefit from the funding provided through the Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) and Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) programs.

According to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, since Gov. Phil Murphy took office in 2018, the state has recorded increases of up to 92% in new Registered Apprenticeship programs.

The model pairs partners with colleges and universities to give students the opportunity to concurrently fulfill requirements by earning college credits for their work-based learning.

Employers in the state and nationwide can join The Camden Dream Center's RAP to build a new, more skilled and diverse talent pipeline for two initial occupations: cybersecurity support technician and network technician.