Train, Retain & Grow: Registered Apprenticeship for Small Business [5/21/2026]
Many small business owners hear the word “apprenticeship” and think it only applies to large companies or traditional trade programs. In reality, Registered Apprenticeship can be a practical workforce strategy for small businesses that need to hire, train, and retain skilled employees.
Join the Alabama SBDC at Troy University for a virtual Lunch & Learn with Cesily Means, Project Manager with the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship, to learn what a Registered Apprenticeship Program is, how it works, and whether it could be a good fit for your business.
This session will break down the basics in plain language and help business owners understand how apprenticeship can support employee training, reduce turnover, create a stronger talent pipeline, and provide a structured path for workers to grow into skilled roles.
Participants will learn:
- What a Registered Apprenticeship Program is and how it differs from informal on-the-job training
- Which types of small businesses and industries can use apprenticeships
- How apprenticeship programs are structured
- What support is available through the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship
- How small businesses can begin exploring whether apprenticeship is a realistic option
This session is ideal for small business owners, managers, contractors, service-based businesses, and employers who are struggling to find or retain skilled workers and want to explore a more intentional way to grow their workforce.
Date: May 21, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Format: Virtual Lunch & Learn
Speaker: Cesily Means, Alabama Office of Apprenticeship / Alabama Department of Workforce
A Registered Apprenticeship may be more accessible than you think. Join us to learn how this model can help small businesses turn workforce challenges into long-term growth opportunities.