Registered Apprenticeship programs are a proven solution to creating and retaining a pipeline of diverse, specialized talent that allows businesses to succeed today. Registered Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, receive progressive wage increases, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential. Registered Apprenticeships are industry-vetted and approved and validated by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency.

Apprenticeship.gov General Information about registered apprenticeships 

Local Point of Contact for Apprenticeships: Bill Sandell, Apprenticeship Workforce Consultant
270-404-0956 Email Bill 

Kentucky Business Incentives (list of incentive programs and tax credits)

Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership Program
HB 499 from the 2022 Regular Session established the Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership (ECCAP) Program. Through ECCAP, the cost of child care is shared by the employee, their employer and Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). ​The amount contributed by the Cabinet is based upon the employee's family’s size and income level. ​This means their child care expense could be significantly reduced.​ 

Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)           
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), is a general business credit that is jointly administered by the IRS and the Department of Labor (DOL). The WOTC may be claimed by any employer that hires and pays or incurs wages to certain individuals who are certified by the Kentucky Career Center as being a ​member of ​​a targeted group to be claimed for the WOTC.

Fair Chance Bond 
The Kentucky Fair Chance Bond provided fidelity bonds that protect employers against employee fraud and dishonesty for “at-risk,” hard-to-place job seekers. These bonds are available through your Kentucky Career Center at no cost to Kentucky employers or job applicants. The fidelity bond covers the first six months of employment and has no deductible, so there is no out-of-pocket expense for businesses that participate. Employers also can extend coverage for an additional six months at no cost if the worker demonstrates job honesty.

Local Point of Contact for Tax Credits: Bill Sandell, Apprenticeship Workforce Consultant
270-404-0956 Email Bill 

Curious what professional development training may be offered locally? In addition to events offered by our region’s Chambers of Commerce, there are several groups that could design or host training(s) tailored to your company’s needs. Check out the following:

Training Consortium - Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce (bgchamber.com): Training Consortium offers a number of courses for its member businesses that target both hard and soft skills needed by employees. Classes are offered both in-person as well as virtually.

Southcentral Kentucky Community & Technical College (SKYCTC) Workforce Solutions: We have designed services and training opportunities to increase economic development in our region. From industrial maintenance and team building to computer robotics instruction and continuing education for those licensed in technical careers, we provide excellent training services to employees of all trades to upgrade their skills. Customized training for employers is also available.

Local Contact: Kim Myers, Dean of Workforce Solutions, (270) 901-4337, skyctcworkforce@kctcs.edu 

WKU Training and Event Planning Services: WKU Training Resources and Event Planning Services (TREPS) is a comprehensive resource for your planning needs. We facilitate training and events for individuals and organizations throughout the region, as well as the WKU campus community to promote and facilitate successful events. 

Local Contact: Derek Olive, Director Continuing & Professional Development, 
(270) 745-2409 Email Derek

WKU Professional Development Opportunities: Western Kentucky University offers several types of (non-degree credit) learning opportunities for individuals seeking professional or personal development.

Local Contact: Derek Olive, Director Continuing & Professional Development, 

(270) 745-2409 Email Derek

Leadership Strategies Group: At Leadership Strategies Group, we specialize in seamlessly integrating continuous learning with other performance interventions for our clients. Our diverse team of highly qualified facilitators tailors programs to precisely align with the unique needs and goals of each client.

Local Contact: Michael Trivizadakis, CEO, Leadership Strategies Group 270-781-1336 Email Michael

Cultural Competency Training

Meriven Training and Consulting Contact via email

Civic Engagement / Community Leadership Programs 

Chamber of Commerce: many local CoC’s run annual leadership programs. Contact a local CoC to learn more or visit their website. 

Academy for New Americans: The Academy for New Americans is a no cost, award winning leadership-training program sponsored by the City of Bowling Green that empowers New American residents of Bowling Green to understand and participate in City Government.