Reshaping Apprenticeship Governance and Strategy

Winter 2026 Workforce Development Policy Institute - Information Session, Reshaping Apprenticeship Governance and Strategy

As Governors work to expand registered apprenticeship programs, this session will examine avenues for innovation in the governance and administration of apprenticeship. The discussion will address recent federal investments in apprenticeship, distinctions in policy between State Apprenticeship Agencies (SAAs) and those engaging with federally administered Offices of Apprenticeship (OAs), as well as best practices for scaling programs.

Panelists:

• Laura Fortman, Commissioner, Maine Department of Labor 

• John Ladd, Senior Advisor, Center for Apprenticeship & Work-Based Learning, Jobs for the Future

• Kendra Ringstmeyer, Director of Workforce Development, South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation

Moderator:  

Malena Dailey, Policy Analyst, NGA Center for Best Practices