At the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to recognize National Apprenticeship Month and highlight the critical role apprenticeships play in workforce development. As a Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary, we are committed to helping businesses cultivate skilled talent and supporting career seekers as they earn while they learn.
As one of the first organizations in Colorado to be designated as a Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce plays a pivotal role in expanding apprenticeship opportunities across industries. This designation underscores our commitment to ensuring businesses have the tools and support they need to successfully implement apprenticeship programs.
Our focus as an intermediary is centered on industry needs, helping employers leverage apprenticeships to build a skilled, sustainable workforce. We do this by:
- Connecting Employers to Apprenticeship Programs – We serve as a bridge between businesses and apprenticeship providers, helping employers find the right programs that align with their industry and workforce demands.
- Reducing Administrative Burden – Through resources, guidance, and strategic partnerships, we simplify the process of establishing and managing apprenticeship programs, making it easier for businesses to participate.
- Providing Financial Support – We help businesses access funding and incentives to offset the costs of creating and sustaining work-based learning models, ensuring that apprenticeships remain a viable, long-term solution for workforce development.
By prioritizing employer needs and fostering strong partnerships, we are driving the expansion of high-quality apprenticeship opportunities throughout the Grand Valley.
West Slope Works
One of our flagship programs, West Slope Works, is dedicated to fostering work-based learning opportunities. Through employer incentives totaling nearly $100,000 in the past year, this initiative supports apprenticeships, internships, and job shadowing opportunities. By emphasizing real-world experiences, West Slope Works ensures that individuals develop professional skills while providing businesses with a pipeline of capable talent.
This initiative also strengthens mentorship opportunities, reinforcing values like professionalism, accountability, and a strong work ethic. These attributes are crucial not only for individual career success but also for the long-term sustainability of our local workforce.
Expanding Opportunities with Youth Apprenticeships
In our commitment to strengthening workforce development, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with CareerWise to bring modern youth apprenticeships to our region. As the chosen leader for employer relations in this initiative, we work directly with businesses to implement these youth apprenticeships, providing students with meaningful career pathways while helping employers cultivate a pipeline of skilled, future-ready talent.
Collaborative Partnerships for Workforce Success
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) Tech is a key partner that we are proud to work alongside in developing a skilled workforce. CMU Tech combines high-quality education with job-specific training while fostering a culture of knowledge, inclusion, and constructive dialogue. By working alongside CMU Tech, we help ensure students are prepared academically and professionally for the workforce.
A long-standing partnership with the Mesa County Workforce Center has been instrumental in our workforce development efforts. The Workforce Center continues to collaborate with organizations across the region to drive economic and workforce development.
The Future of Workforce Development
Apprenticeships generate a positive return on investment for employers, shape early-career talent into skilled, loyal employees, rejuvenate company culture and advance existing employees (who may serve as mentors for the apprentices), and support local, sustainable talent pipelines for hard to fill roles. The Grand Junction Chamber remains committed to supporting apprenticeships, connecting businesses with skilled talent, and ensuring our community continues to thrive.
We invite businesses, job seekers, and community partners to join us in celebrating National Apprenticeship Month and working together toward a brighter economic future. Interested in incorporating or expanding an apprenticeship program? Contact us to get started by emailed [email protected]!
