91ÊÓƵ

A bill that would add apprenticeship programs to the state’s 2025 education goals has been introduced during the Oregon Legislature‘s short session.

House Bill 4058, passed unanimously by the House Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee on Monday, would consider apprenticeship programs approved by the State Apprenticeship and Training Council equal to associate’s degrees for meeting Oregon’s 40-40-20 educational goals.

John Rakowitz, director of public and strategic affairs for Associated General Contractors’ Oregon-Columbia chapter, lauded the bill. He said it could raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities and help the construction industry meet its expected need of 20,000 new workers by 2020.

“Most if not all apprenticeship programs require as much training as associate’s degrees,” he said. “There is a broad need to recognize that. This would not solve the problem by itself, but it’s a good first step.”

The bill could have two impacts, said Rep. Mark Johnson, R-Hood River, one of three chief co-sponsors and owner of Mark Johnson Construction Inc. in Hood River.

“First, it would shine the light on the validity for apprenticeship as a career path and allow our public education system to get involved,” Johnson said. “Second, this could help us evaluate apprenticeship programs that currently exist in Oregon whether they meet the needs of the private sector. I think we will find that they are not.”

The bill will next go before the full House.