Montana Selected for National Governors Association Policy Academy to Strengthen Youth Registered Apprenticeship Pathways

• September 12 2025

Helena, Mont. The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) today announced that Montana has begun work with the National Governors Association (NGA) Policy Academy on Youth Apprenticeship, a prestigious initiative that will help the state advance its strategy for expanding high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for students and young adults.

This opportunity builds on Governor Greg Gianforte’s 406 JOBS Initiative, which focuses on connecting more Montanans with in-demand careers and ensuring businesses have access to a skilled workforce. Through the NGA Policy Academy, Montana will work with national experts, peer states, and local partners within Montana communities to refine its approach, strengthen coordination, and accelerate efforts to grow youth apprenticeship programs statewide. The $50,000 competitive award will fund the academy work and support youth registered apprenticeship expansion efforts across Montana.

“Youth apprenticeship opens doors for Montana students while giving employers access to the skilled workforce they need to thrive,” said Sarah Swanson, Commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. “By aligning with the 406 JOBS Initiative, we can ensure youth registered apprenticeship becomes a powerful tool in Montana’s broader strategy—helping students gain hands-on experience, meeting employer demand for talent, and supporting our state’s growth across every region and industry.”

Creating Clearer Pathways for Montana Students

Participation in the NGA Policy Academy will help Montana align education and training with workforce needs, expand youth apprenticeship opportunities in high-demand sectors like health care, construction, manufacturing, the trades, energy, and information technology, and strengthen partnerships between schools, employers, and workforce leaders across the state.

Montana’s Policy Academy Team

Montana’s team brings together leaders committed to shaping the future of youth apprenticeship:

• Crystal Armstrong – Administrator, MT DLI Workforce Services Division
• Jennifer Owen – Executive Director, Montana State Workforce Innovation Board
• Sara Schreiner – Chair, Montana Apprenticeship Advisory Council and Owner of The Sunshine Academy
• Glen Disque – MT DLI State Director of Apprenticeship
• Alicia Doney – MT DLI Tribal Youth Engagement Specialist

For more information about Montana’s apprenticeship programs, visit apprenticeship.mt.gov or contact the Montana Department of Labor & Industry.