AFT & CareerWise’s Apprenticeship Accelerator Offers Real Solutions – Texas AFT

Report on the Education and Apprenticeship Accelerator Initiative

Introduction

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and CareerWise have launched the Education and Apprenticeship Accelerator, an initiative supported by six states and industry leaders. This program aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), by promoting earn-and-learn pathways that address workforce challenges in classrooms nationwide.

Program Overview

The Accelerator focuses on high-school apprenticeship models that integrate career and technical education (CTE) with practical career pathways. These pathways include fields such as:

• Cybersecurity
• Welding
• Microchip manufacturing

Such programs are designed to retain talent both during schooling and in subsequent employment, supporting SDG 8 by fostering sustained economic growth and productive employment.

State-Level Implementation: Texas Case Study

In Texas, Governor Abbott prioritized “expanding career training” as an emergency legislative item. The state legislature responded by:

1. Expanding equipment grants
2. Enhancing the CTE program

However, unlike states such as Colorado and Pennsylvania, Texas has not established a coordinated, student-centered apprenticeship infrastructure. This lack of a statewide vision results in fragmented efforts, limiting the potential impact on workforce development and educational quality.

Addressing Teacher Retention through Apprenticeships

The apprenticeship framework presents a strategic solution to Texas’s teacher retention crisis, aligning with SDG 4 by ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities. Key opportunities include:

• Unifying career-training initiatives with CTE investments
• Scaling industry-aligned pathways for youth
• Developing a pipeline of well-prepared teachers committed to long-term classroom engagement

Strategic Recommendations

To maximize the benefits of the Accelerator and support the SDGs, Texas leaders are encouraged to:

1. Integrate apprenticeship programs as a foundational strategy for CTE success
2. Leverage apprenticeships to improve teacher retention rates
3. Invest in modern education systems that empower students and support educators

Conclusion

The collaboration between AFT and CareerWise underscores the importance of modernizing education to build a workforce aligned with current and future economic demands. By adopting comprehensive apprenticeship frameworks, Texas can contribute significantly to achieving SDG 4 and SDG 8, investing in students’ futures and strengthening the education workforce.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 4: Quality Education – The article discusses expanding career training, career and technical education (CTE), and apprenticeship programs aimed at improving education quality and relevance.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – The focus on earn-and-learn pathways, apprenticeships in industries like cybersecurity and manufacturing, and workforce development aligns with promoting sustained, inclusive economic growth and productive employment.
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – The article highlights bridging education with technical fields such as microchip manufacturing and welding, supporting innovation and industrial skills development.
4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (implied) – By preparing youth for local workforce needs and retaining talent, the article indirectly supports sustainable community development.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 4 Targets:
   • Target 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
   • Target 4.c: Increase the supply of qualified teachers, including through international cooperation for teacher training.
2. SDG 8 Targets:
   • Target 8.6: Reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.
   • Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including young people.
3. SDG 9 Targets:
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for Target 4.3: Participation rates in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs, such as the apprenticeship and CTE programs mentioned.
2. Indicator for Target 4.c: Number of qualified teachers trained and retained, addressing the teacher retention crisis highlighted.
3. Indicator for Target 8.6: Proportion of youth engaged in employment, education, or training, reflecting the success of earn-and-learn pathways.
4. Indicator for Target 8.5: Employment rates in industry sectors linked to apprenticeships like cybersecurity and manufacturing.
5. Indicator for Target 9.5: Number of students trained in advanced industrial skills and technological fields.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: texasaft.org