Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer endorsed an executive order signed by President Trump Thursday aimed at expanding apprenticeship programs and modernizing workforce development initiatives across multiple federal agencies.
The executive order, titled “Preparing Americans for High-Paying, Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future,” directs the Departments of Labor, Commerce and Education to strengthen registered apprenticeships and reshape workforce development programs to better align with current labor market needs.
“This decisive action is yet another example of President Trump keeping his promise to American workers, empowering them to fill good-paying, in-demand jobs that will secure our economic comeback,” Chavez-DeRemer said.
Key provisions
The order requires the three departments to conduct a comprehensive review of federal workforce development programs, with a focus on identifying opportunities to streamline requirements and develop educational pathways beyond traditional four-year degrees.
It also establishes a goal of reaching one million active apprentices by expanding access to in-demand occupations and improving connections between educational institutions and apprenticeship programs.
Additionally, the order calls for increased data collection to enhance transparency and accountability in workforce development initiatives.
Chavez-DeRemer characterized the directive as part of a broader effort to “revitalize and reshape our workforce into a highly skilled powerhouse of potential.”
The Labor Department will play a central role in implementing the executive order, working alongside Commerce and Education to develop specific implementation plans in the coming months.
