The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has been named an Apprenticeship Ambassador by the U.S. Department of Labor in recognition of the Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program. This designation underscores IALR’s commitment to advancing Registered Apprenticeship programs in ways that meet the evolving workforce needs of the region’s employers. The ExTRA program helps bridge workforce gaps and create new opportunities for individuals and businesses across Southern Virginia.
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“Our focus is on creating pathways that provide economic mobility for individuals while meeting the talent needs of regional businesses. Registered Apprenticeship is a powerful way to achieve both.” – Natori Neal, Apprenticeship Coordinator, IALR
Through the ExTRA program, IALR works with regional businesses to implement apprenticeship programs in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, construction, information technology and education. These programs offer participants paid, on-the-job training coupled with classroom learning, providing a seamless, practical way to build the skills needed for a successful career. To date, the ExTRA program has supported the creation of 31 new apprenticeship programs and the registration of 82 new apprentices since its inception in 2022.
“Being named an Apprenticeship Ambassador reflects our commitment to workforce development across Southern Virginia. By supporting employers and individuals through our ExTRA program, we are contributing to a stronger, more skilled regional economy.” – Julie Brown, Ph.D., Vice President, Advanced Learning, IALR
ExTRA provides employers with technical assistance in developing, registering, and administering apprenticeship programs. With investment from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, there are grant funds available to support the required classroom instruction.
“The Tobacco Commission is proud to be a long-time supporter of IALR and this designation from the U.S. Department of Labor makes it clear that IALR is a leader in developing apprenticeship programs that create opportunities for those living in Southern Virginia,” said Tobacco Commission Member, Delegate Danny Marshall. “IALR does an excellent job of supporting our local business community and we look forward to working with them for years to come on innovative workforce development solutions.”
The ExTRA program has made significant strides in expanding apprenticeship opportunities in emerging and nontraditional sectors. For instance, IALR staff supported the creation of Virginia’s first Registered Apprenticeship programs for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics.
By blending on-the-job training with classroom instruction, apprenticeship programs ensure that participants gain practical, hands-on experience while also learning the theoretical knowledge behind their trade. This dual approach meets the evolving workforce needs of employers by producing highly skilled talent equipped for high-demand industries.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship Ambassador Initiative creates a national network of community-based organizations, educators, employers, industry associations, labor organizations, program sponsors, workforce intermediaries and other stakeholders to serve as champions for expanding and diversifying Registered Apprenticeship. As an Apprenticeship Ambassador, IALR is tasked with raising awareness about the benefits of apprenticeship programs, creating new partnerships and driving the adoption of innovative apprenticeship models across the region.
ExTRA is part of IALR’s systematic effort to connect students to careers.
About the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg, along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
