Apprenticeship Pathways Act of 2025

This bill mandates the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, to enter into contracts with industry intermediaries . The primary goal is to foster the development of and enhance access to registered apprenticeships and related pre-apprenticeships specifically for secondary school students . An industry intermediary is defined as an entity that connects employers with partners like the Department of Labor or State agencies to accelerate apprenticeship program development and promote student access. Contracts will be awarded competitively, with priority given to intermediaries focusing on engaging students from high-poverty schools , rural high-need areas, disconnected youth , Indian children, and individuals with disabilities, as well as increasing women's participation in building trades and technology. Funds can be utilized for a broad range of activities, including facilitating program establishment, identifying and training applicants, providing orientation, ongoing support, and wraparound services such as childcare assistance and tutoring. Additionally, the bill allows for covering 50 percent of apprentice wages, educational goods, equipment, and technology, targeting high-need occupations in sectors like building trades, healthcare, teaching, and technology.