WAI Receives 3-Year Grant to Help Unions Expand Apprenticeships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Washington, D.C., June 25, 2026) -- We're excited to share that the AFL-CIO Working for America Institute has received a three-year, $3 million grant from Ascendium Education Group to expand union-led registered apprenticeship programs into new industries and regions across the country, such as manufacturing, transportation, and the public sector.

This investment will help WAI partner with affiliate unions and their employers to create high-quality apprenticeship opportunities that connect workers to skilled careers, economic mobility, and long-term success.

GRANT HIGHLIGHTS

• Three-year investment to create pathways to skilled, living-wage careers and economic mobility
• $3 million award to expand Registered Apprenticeship
• Growth into new industries and priority regions
• More union-led and union-management apprenticeship opportunities
• Increased access for workers facing barriers to quality careers