By Kylie Parks, Arvada Chamber Director of Talent Pipeline Development
Towards the end of 2023, The Arvada Chamber of Commerce was fortunate enough to be selected as a Work-Based Learning Incentive Program intermediary. Through this program, we have been able to support 46 businesses and have committed the full $400,000 awarded funding. These businesses committed to developing varying work-based learning opportunities including paid internships, apprenticeships, and team member upskilling.
Emily Sharp, Hospitality Manager at Footer’s Catering highlighted that through this program “We had our first intern in spring 2024, a hospitality student from Metro State, and this summer have one more intern, a culinary student at DU. We also are working with the Colorado and National Restaurant Foundations to build out a culinary Registered Apprenticeship program, with our first apprentice slated to be an internal team member who never attended culinary school and would appreciate the opportunity. We’re looking to launch a “class” of students in spring 2025 but are enjoying our first test subjects now.”
While we are sad that the funding has come to an end, we are feeling hopeful and encouraged by recent legislation. In particular, HB24-1439 is the new policy which provides financial incentives to expand apprenticeship programs. Businesses that currently have an apprenticeship or develop a registered apprenticeship program will be eligible for a tax deduction up to $12,000 per registered apprentice (maximum 10 apprentices per year).
If your business is interested in exploring apprenticeships for your organization, we would be happy to discuss with you if it is the right option for you, and connect you to the right support partners. Book one-on-one talent strategy time HERE. You can also explore more by going to the State Apprenticeship Agency Site.
Are you interested in getting more involved, and staying in the loop with our Talent work, become a Talent Champion, and join the conversation.
B.O.L.D. 2026 is a five-year regional economic strength and resiliency initiative of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber developed BOLD 2026 in consultation with private and public sector leaders and partners in Arvada, Jefferson / Adams Counties, Metro Denver and the state of Colorado. One goal of B.O.L.D. 2026 is to grow our talent to meet the needs of employers and job seekers.
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