A state agency is seeking applications for qualified organizations that will play a role in expanding a registered apprenticeship program in Colorado.

Apprenticeship Colorado, part of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment Office of the Future of Work, will recognize apprenticeship intermediaries.

A virtual town hall is scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 9 to offer more information about eligibility and the application process. More information about the event is available from the CDLE website at https://cdle.colorado.gov.

“Apprenticeship works best when partners come together to support employers to launch and sustain programs. A widescale system of quality apprenticeship intermediaries creates the opportunity to enhance our system while prioritizing what matters — jobseekers and employers,” said Denise Miller, director of Apprenticeship Colorado. “As the state apprenticeship agency, we are excited to coordinate this strategy to focus on the high-quality training needs and resources to accelerate adoption of this training model.”

Qualified apprenticeship intermediaries include public and private organizations involved in expanding or enhancing the registered apprenticeship system through their support of jobseekers, apprentices, employers and sponsors. Intermediaries can include apprenticeship training committees, community colleges, economic development organizations, industry or trade associations, school districts and state agencies.

Organizations can apply for recognition through one or two categories.

Industry apprenticeship intermediaries address employer needs through apprenticeships by providing such services as designing and delivering curriculum, reducing administrative burden through tools, offering professional development and providing financial support and other resources to support the growth and sustainability of apprenticeship programs.

Talent apprenticeship intermediaries focus on career seeker and apprentice needs, especially those facing employment barriers, by ensuring they’re aware of apprenticeship programs, have the resources and referrals to enroll in programs and the support necessary to complete programs and understand career pathways.

Recognition as a qualified apprenticeship intermediary provides several benefits, including eligibility to compete for funding opportunities and participation in training and other events.