Montana Governor Gianforte administration proposes rule change to let employers take on more apprentices

State leaders and contractors agree that registered apprenticeships have been a key program to help build Montana’s skilled workforce in the trades. Now, Gov. Greg Gianforte’s administration is proposing a rule change that could significantly increase the number of apprenticeships available in the state.

Registered apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training under an employer’s supervision. The Montana Department of Labor and Industry says 2,600 apprentices have been active this year, in 85 different occupations.