The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center has launched a new Registered Apprenticeship initiative designed to strengthen the regional workforce and expand access to high-quality career pathways for employers and individuals. To lead the effort, the Center has hired Jenny Nichols as Registered Apprenticeship Coordinator.

Registered Apprenticeship is a nationally recognized, industry-driven workforce model that allows individuals to earn a wage while gaining hands-on experience, mentorship, classroom instruction, and a portable credential. While more than 12,000 registered apprentices are active across Virginia, only four percent are located in Southwest Virginia. This initiative aims to close that gap by reducing barriers for local employers and increasing regional participation.

As its new Registered Apprenticeship Coordinator, Nichols will provide hands-on technical assistance to employers, guiding them through program development, registration, apprentice recruitment, and reporting requirements.

“Registered Apprenticeship is one of the most effective tools we have to connect people to meaningful careers while meeting employer needs,” said Nichols. “My goal is to make the process approachable so more businesses in Southwest Virginia can participate.”

The initiative includes step-by-step program support, funding assistance for employer-related technical instruction, apprentice recruitment and outreach, and financial incentives for employers whose apprentices successfully complete programs.

“This program reflects our commitment to practical, employer-driven solutions that create opportunity and support long-term economic growth in the region,” said David Matlock, Executive Director of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.

To learn more about registered apprenticeship opportunities, visit https://www.swcenter.edu/apprentice/.