Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services development manager Leslie Wtz, along with Marie Larson from the City of Minneapolis, introduced the concept of a community of practice centered on registered apprenticeship initiatives. This concept arose from the recognition of shared knowledge and expertise among participants. The primary goal is to expand registered apprenticeships statewide by gathering insights and resources to enhance local capacity for these programs. The community aims to foster collaboration and resource sharing among various stakeholders, developing tools and resources accessible to all participants.

Discussions also focused on employer engagement strategies important to advancing apprenticeship programs. Participants noted that the approach taken by some Department of Labor and Industry staff when engaging with employers could be improved. The Minneapolis apprenticeship outreach office has developed tools to facilitate employer engagement, including a logo and informational flyers adaptable by other regions, and a QR code linked to an inquiry form has generated significant interest from various industry sectors.

The meeting explored the potential benefits of convening employer roundtables to foster regional or statewide discussions about apprenticeship opportunities. This suggestion ties into the overarching goal of developing a regional strategy for apprenticeship, considered a newer conversation, particularly in the Metro area. The importance of sharing information about funding opportunities to support collaborative efforts in applying for grants and resources was emphasized. Participants expressed interest in understanding the role of apprenticeship sponsors and the potential for industry associations, particularly in manufacturing, to take on this responsibility. Smaller manufacturers could collaborate through a larger association to sponsor apprenticeship programs collectively, relieving the burden from individual businesses.

The necessity for practical assistance regarding apprenticeship sponsorship and funding was a significant topic of discussion. Questions arose about the technicalities of becoming an apprenticeship sponsor and the associated financial mechanisms. The community of practice is seen as a platform to address these questions and gather necessary information from the Department of Labor and Industry. There was acknowledgment that local boards might collaborate with business associations to explore the possibility of becoming apprenticeship sponsors.

The meeting also touched on logistical considerations for future gatherings of the community of practice, with debates about the frequency of meetings. A strong preference for meeting every other month emerged, with the idea of forming subcommittees for specific tasks. Participants discussed aligning efforts with the Mobs Business Services committee, although it was noted that the focus of the community of practice might warrant its standalone status.

Participants expressed a desire for concrete strategies and outcomes, with one participant stating the need to “take it to the next level and really implement some of the work in the local areas.” The sentiment was echoed by others eager for practical strategies and outcomes rather than high-level discussions.