The Lake County Workforce Development Board has successfully created a vibrant pipeline of talent with partners and sponsors of Registered Apprenticeship Programs, addressing critical workforce challenges and providing opportunities to make good jobs more accessible to populations that have been underrepresented in the workforce.
In partnership with the National Institute for Work and Learning and FHI360, the Youth Development Practitioner Apprenticeship (YDPA) program was launched in January 2024, enrolling 18 apprentices from seven local organizations.
The YDPA offers a non-traditional option for existing staff to engage in instruction and related materials on positive youth development principles and provides these principles in direct services to the youth. Just as importantly, YDPA is delivered to a cohesive network of youth development professionals who are learning from each other and deepening their understanding of collaboration and service integration across community organizations. This collaboration has led to increased referrals, stronger relationships, and enhanced service strategies, adding yet another valuable tool to strengthen and expand the workforce development ecosystem.
The YDPA mission is to improve equity, access, and professional development for youth development practitioners. The YDPA course is a competency-based curriculum, comprised of group cohort and individualized learning. Modules and learning activities are designed to help apprentices develop core skills in nine competency domains.
1. Positive Youth Development Principles and Relationships
2. Coaching, Planning and Support
3. Group Facilitation
4. Career Pathways
5. Career Case Management
6. Leveraging Technology
7. Understanding How Youth Organizations Work
8. Professional Development
9. Self-Care
The success of YDPA is based on partnerships – the program consists of the apprenticeship sponsor, the organization (employer), the apprentice, and their supervisor and mentor. The community partnering agencies create an inclusive culture and welcoming environment for all agencies to be part of the network and provide access to careers for young people. The apprentices themselves are the cornerstone of this success. The skills, insights, and experiences they gain through the YDPA will have a lasting impact on the young people they serve. This experience strengthens the network of youth development professionals dedicated to creating brighter futures for Lake County’s youth.
“The Youth Development Practitioner Apprenticeship has been incredibly valuable in my job. It’s given me practical experience and helped me improve my skills in youth-centered design, facilitation, and coaching. I feel more equipped to engage young people effectively and apply best practices to support their growth.” – Angel Tovar, Youth Career Advisor, Business and Career Services
“I always knew I had a passion for youth development, however, YDPA has given me the tools to put my passion into practice and I’ve gained a group of colleagues/friends that have a plethora of experience and skills that I would never had access to had it not been for this apprenticeship. I am forever grateful.” – Tempest Shardae Earl, Member Services and Data Manager, YouthBuild Lake County
The first cohort of YDPA apprentices is scheduled to graduate in January 2025. Lake County Workforce Development is looking forward to collaborating with The National Institute for Work and Learning to offer a second cohort in 2025, expanding opportunities to young people interested in working in the ecosystem.
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