TCSG Celebrates Apprenticeship Week with Announcement of 2024 Apprenticeship Awards to Georgia Businesses

Staff Report

Thursday, November 16th, 2023

The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) today announced the awards of the second year of the High Demand Career Initiative (HDCI) Program supporting Georgia businesses with the creation and expansion of Registered Apprenticeships. These awards represent the first part of the state’s annual investment of more than $1 million into apprenticeships for Georgia’s workforce and business community.

 “There is no better way to celebrate the impact of apprenticeships on Georgia than to recognize Georgia businesses that are committed to connecting Georgians to quality, skilled jobs,” said TCSG Commissioner Greg Dozier. “With the continued support of the Governor and legislature, Georgia is not only a leader in job creation, but also leading the way in how Georgians access career pathways, like registered apprenticeships." 

In 2022, Governor Kemp and lawmakers created the HDCI Program, representing a historic investment in apprenticeships in Georgia. The HDCI Program awards up to $50,000 in funding to Georgia businesses to upskill workers through registered apprenticeships and increase skilled talent within Georgia’s high-demand industries. The HDCI Program has led to the creation of 224 apprentices and more than $11 million in added income into Georgia’s economy each year upon program completions.

“The HDCI Program exemplifies the opportunities that Georgia offers to both businesses and workforce alike,” said Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Development Karen Kirchler. “Apprenticeships build and train the next generation of talent in real time, resulting in stronger businesses and high wages for communities across the state.”

November 13 through 17, 2023 has been proclaimed Apprenticeship Week in Georgia by Governor Kemp. Click here to see the 2024 HDCI Program Award List. The next application window of the HDCI Program is expected to open in February 2024.