Talent Pathways Innovation Concept

This page outlines a potential concept for an apprenticeship-based innovation aimed at uncovering challenges, improving equity, and expanding access to quality apprenticeships for BIPOC young adults (age 16-24) in the U.S.

One of the key findings during our Spotlight Interview process was the transformative value of early access into apprenticeship programs for young adults not yet out of high school. In such programs, students get an early start building professional soft skills and slowly taking on more responsibilities. Employers, meanwhile, see the programs as a long-term investment, retaining talent and investing in diversity. A win-win.

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Equitable Apprenticeships for Young Adults⁠

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Heard & Learned⁠

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About NewImpact⁠

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“The first year of the apprenticeship was understanding what it is to be an employee. The third year was when I was able to show my skills to my supervisor. They gave me a chance. It’s a blessing.” - Current apprentice in Colorado

“[Employers’] biggest fear is that we will spend all this money and time, and then people will leave us. We will never sign a contract with a student — but nobody leaves us.” - Apprenticeship sponsor in North Carolina

With this data in mind, our consulting team narrowed our focus on the opportunity to match high school students with employers, either as they are transitioning out of school, or shortly after graduating. We explored the supply side challenge of expanding apprenticeship opportunities across more industries, and came up with insights and recommendations based on a tri-sector innovation process that examined how the roles, resources, and self-interests of public, private, and social sectors might be realigned in service of solutions.

Talent Pathways Innovation Concept

In the deck below, we outline our innovation solution concept: a transferable pre-apprenticeship program powered by a two-sided platform connecting young adults seeking post-high school work experience and learning opportunities with employers looking to hire and access a pool of vetted and trained entry-level talent.

This concept, based on comprehensive desk research and interviews with 27 organizations across public, private, and social sectors, addresses and applies to the key opportunity areas identified in the larger apprenticeship project. It serves as an example of how tri-sector business models and resource repurposing can help expand apprenticeship opportunities in the U.S. in numerous ways.

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If you or your organization is interested in helping pilot one of our programs in your community, please

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