In parallel, encourage the Department of Labor to use existing authority to expand apprenticeships via competitive grants and program levers.
Use a parallel executive-action lane to grow apprenticeships even when Congress stalls. Push the Department of Labor to expand competitive grants and embed apprenticeship expectations in related federal programs so funding translates into real “earn-and-learn” capacity. Keep the focus on repeatable program playbooks so growth doesn’t collapse when grant cycles end or administrations change.
Why this works
- The administration can act even without new legislation – for instance, channeling infrastructure workforce funds toward apprenticeships, requiring project labor agreements with apprenticeship utilization, etc.
- Quick injection of grant funds can scale programs in high-need sectors (like EV technician apprenticeships for the growing electric vehicle industry).
National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare
AdvocacyProtecting and enhancing retirement and health security for seniors
Mechanism
About LobbyingHow National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare uses funding
- Identify the grant programs and federal levers that can expand Registered Apprenticeships quickly.
- Prepare partners to apply and compete effectively, including compliance and reporting readiness.
- Engage agency leadership on priorities, criteria, and how apprenticeship fits into related programs.
- Track awards, publish what’s funded, and surface best practices partners can reuse.
- Monitor delivery so growth includes mentorship and support capacity, not just enrollment targets.
Milestones
Checkpoints and the expected timing for each step
- 1
Grant and leverage map completed
0–30 daysPartners have a calendar and playbook for key grant and program opportunities.
- 2
Partner applications supported
Next application windowApplicants submit strong proposals aligned with program criteria.
- 3
Awards and programs tracked
Award announcementsFunded programs are cataloged with public updates on goals and delivery.
- 4
Delivery quality monitored
OngoingUpdates show funded programs launching and maintaining mentorship and support capacity.