In this episode of Apprenticeships WORK!, Dr. Kimberly A. Moore speaks with Senator Cory McCray about how a union-based registered apprenticeship transformed his life — creating economic mobility, early homeownership, and a pathway into public service.

Now a legislative leader championing workforce policy, Senator McCray shares insights on workforce development as community uplift, policy reform, barriers to entry in skilled trades, cross-sector collaboration, and the future of equitable apprenticeship ecosystems.

This episode is essential for employers, policymakers, educators, labor leaders, and workforce practitioners committed to building inclusive talent pipelines.

In this inaugural episode of Apprenticeships WORK!, we launch a national conversation on why apprenticeships are one of the most powerful, proven strategies for building a skilled, future-ready workforce.

In this candid discussion, the Dave Reaves, Chairman, Clean Technology Training Trust shares leadership insights on the current workforce landscape, the growing demand for employer-driven talent pipelines, and why apprenticeships are delivering results for businesses, workers, and communities alike. The conversation explores how apprenticeships align education and industry, reduce time-to-fill for critical roles, and create equitable, earn-and-learn pathways into high-quality careers.

Listeners will hear reflections on leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and the role of labor, employers, and education partners in scaling what works. The episode also addresses common misconceptions about apprenticeships, what it takes to move from pilot programs to sustainable systems, and why this moment demands bold, coordinated action.

Whether you’re an employer, policymaker, workforce leader, educator, or labor partner, this episode sets the foundation for understanding why apprenticeships aren’t a trend—they’re a solution.