Lawmakers hear broad support for state funding to expand certified pre‑apprenticeships

Representative Kilton Webb, sponsor of LD 1117, told the Joint Standing Committee on Labor that the bill would strengthen Maine’s workforce by expanding certified pre‑apprenticeship programs and asked the committee to advance the measure.

The bill attracted broad support from labor groups, training providers and people who completed pre‑apprenticeship courses. Testimony highlighted that certified pre‑apprenticeship programs offer hands‑on training, safety credentials and a direct pipeline into registered apprenticeship programs — often leading to well‑paid, career‑track jobs without the student debt associated with four‑year college paths.

Why this matters: Testimony and department data presented to the committee showed rapid recent growth in pre‑apprenticeship offerings in Maine and measurable conversion into registered apprenticeship slots. The sponsor and supporting witnesses said state investment would expand capacity in construction, manufacturing, health care and other in‑demand sectors and help employers fill positions as existing journey‑level workers retire.

Representative Kilton Webb, who identified himself as an electrician and the director of membership development for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 567, told the committee pre‑apprenticeships are…