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Manufacturers: Don't Miss This New Apprenticeship Incentive Opportunity

  • 1 day ago
  • 2 min read

Finding and retaining skilled workers remains one of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers across Missouri. A new funding opportunity is now available to help manufacturers develop talent pipelines, train employees, and offset workforce development costs through Registered Apprenticeship Programs.


The American Advanced Manufacturing Incentive Fund is offering financial incentives to manufacturers that establish or participate in Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs). The program is designed to support workforce development while helping manufacturers build a stronger, more sustainable workforce.


How the Incentive Works


The fund operates on a pay-for-performance model. Eligible Registered Apprenticeship sponsors and employers may receive $3,500 per apprentice after the apprentice successfully completes a 90-day probationary period. Sponsors may retain up to 10 percent of the incentive, with at least 90 percent passed directly to the apprentice employer.


For manufacturers looking to recruit new talent, upskill current employees, or create structured career pathways, this funding can help offset training and onboarding costs while strengthening long-term workforce retention.


Apprenticeships Are More Flexible Than You Think


Registered Apprenticeship Programs are not limited to new hires entering the workforce. Programs can be customized to support:


  • High school students and young adults entering manufacturing careers

  • Current employees seeking advancement opportunities

  • Workers transitioning into new roles within a company

  • New hires who benefit from structured on-the-job training and classroom instruction


Apprenticeships combine paid employment, hands-on training, and industry-recognized credentials, creating a win-win opportunity for both employers and employees.


Eligible Manufacturing Occupations


The incentive fund covers a wide range of advanced manufacturing occupations, including:


  • CNC Machinists

  • Industrial Maintenance Mechanics

  • Mechatronics Technicians

  • Robotics Technicians

  • Manufacturing Production Technicians

  • Quality Control Technicians

  • Welders

  • Millwrights

  • Industrial Automation Technicians

  • Electrical and Instrumentation Technicians

  • Tool and Die Makers

  • Industrial Manufacturing Technicians


More than 100 manufacturing-related occupations are eligible under the program, providing opportunities for manufacturers of all sizes and specialties.


No-Cost Assistance Available


Through the Heart of Missouri Regional Professional Development Center (RPDC), employers can receive no-cost assistance with developing and registering apprenticeship programs through the U.S. Department of Labor.


This support helps manufacturers navigate the registration process, develop training standards, and create apprenticeship pathways tailored to their workforce needs.


Learn More


Manufacturers interested in exploring this opportunity can learn more about the American Advanced Manufacturing Incentive Fund at the Arkansas Office of Skills Development Manufacturing Fund website:



For assistance establishing a Registered Apprenticeship Program, contact:


Angie Fadness

Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant

Heart of Missouri Regional Professional Development Center

University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development

Phone: 573-489-1959


As workforce challenges continue to impact manufacturers across our region, apprenticeship programs offer a proven strategy for attracting, developing, and retaining skilled talent while leveraging available incentive funding.

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