Southwest Virginia Regional Apprenticeship Expansion Program
Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center
Launch or Join a Registered Apprenticeship in Southwest Virginia!
Registered Apprenticeship is a powerful, industry-driven career pathway that benefits both employers and job seekers. For businesses, it’s a smart way to build a skilled workforce. For individuals, it’s a chance to earn while you learn—with paid, hands-on experience, mentorship, classroom instruction, wage growth, and a nationally recognized credential.
Starting an apprenticeship program can feel complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center will provide expert support to help employers register programs, design on-the-job and classroom training, recruit talent, and handle ongoing compliance and reporting.
If you’re a business ready to build your workforce—or an individual ready to start a rewarding career—now is the time to act.
Let us help you take the first step. Contact us today to get started!
For Businesses
Learn how the Southwest Virginia Regional Apprenticeship Expansion program can save you time and money while building your workforce.
For Individuals
Learn how the Southwest Virginia Regional Apprenticeship program can help pay for your training costs while you advance in your career.
Why Join the Regional Apprenticeship Expansion Program?
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One-on-One Support from an Apprenticeship Coordinator
Get expert guidance through every step—from program design to registration—with personalized, hands-on assistance tailored to your business. -
Utilize and Upskill Your Current Workforce
Identify high-potential employees and help them grow through structured on-the-job training and education, building loyalty and filling skills gaps from within. -
Offset Training Costs
Receive funding to cover employer-related technical instruction, reducing the financial burden of employee development. -
Access Financial Incentives
Earn performance-based incentives when apprentices complete their programs successfully. -
Streamline Recruitment
Get help recruiting new talent and attracting individuals seeking long-term, career-building opportunities.
Get on the List!
Why Take Part in the Southwest Virginia Regional Apprenticeship Expansion Program?
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Earn While You Learn
Get paid from day one while gaining valuable skills on the job—no need to take time off work or go back to school full-time. -
Work Toward a Nationally Recognized Credential
Complete a registered apprenticeship and walk away with a credential that’s respected by employers across the country. -
Grow in Your Current Job
Already employed? This program helps you build new skills and advance in your current workplace—no need to start over. -
Mentorship and Support
Learn directly from experienced professionals who will guide you through hands-on training in your chosen field. -
Tuition Assistance
Your employer receives funding to cover technical instruction—so you get access to training at a reduced cost. -
Better Pay as You Progress
Apprentices typically receive regular wage increases as they gain skills and move through the program. -
Career Stability and Advancement
Build a career path in a high-demand industry, backed by real-world experience and recognized credentials.
Get on the List!
Join our List Today!
We’re excited to launch this collaborative new program in the next quarter. Be the first to be contacted when enrollment officially begins!
Don’t Miss This Opportunity!
Have questions about the program? Don’t hesitate to reach out today!
Registered Apprenticeship Coordinator
Jenny Nichols
(276) 619-1489
Jenny Nichols is a lifelong Southwest Virginia resident with deep roots in community service and workforce development. She joins us after serving several years as the Program Director for GO Virginia Region 1 at UVA Wise. Jenny brings a passion for expanding opportunities for students, strengthening regional talent pipelines, and building pathways to high-wage careers. “I am truly excited for this role and grateful for the chance to help connect SWVA students with paid apprenticeship opportunities,” says Jenny. “Our region is full of talent, and I can’t wait to help open doors that lead to meaningful careers and brighter futures.”