The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the appointments of 29 members to serve on the Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship, and provide advice and recommendations on issues related to the DOL’s Registered Apprenticeship Program. The advisory committee will also promote greater awareness of the benefits of apprenticeship, foster increased alignment between apprenticeship opportunities and workforce and education systems, expand apprenticeship into new industries and occupations, and ensure equity for under-represented populations.

“The Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship represents the combined expertise of leaders across industry and workforce sectors,” said Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “Their collective voices will inspire innovative apprenticeship and training strategies to boost our economy, and build an equitable workforce by delivering a system that is better aligned with the needs of historically marginalized communities.” 

Walsh appointed Bunker Hill Community College President Dr. Pam Eddinger to serve as the committee’s chairperson. 

“Apprenticeships are a proven learn-while-you-earn method for equipping workers with the skills and knowledge they need to compete and succeed in a growing economy,” said Eddinger. “Working with Secretary Walsh and the members of the Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship, we can amplify the merits of Registered Apprenticeships, highlight how they can strengthen our nation’s workforce, and ensure that under-represented populations share in our country’s prosperity.”

Members of the committee serve two-year terms, representing employers, labor management organizations, community colleges, and other institutions. Representatives from the U.S. departments of Commerce, Education, Energy, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Health and Human Services serve as ex officio members.

President Joe Biden announced the relaunch of the Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship in February 2021, and the department began seeking nominations in May 2021.

The first meeting of the committee will convene virtually on Oct. 6. Meetings are open to the public.

Some of the electrical professionals representing our industry on this committee include:

• National Electrical Contractors Association CEO T. David Long
• Independent Electrical Contractors Assistant Director Timothy Oberg
• Electrical Training ALLIANCE Executive Director Todd W. Stafford