Two new grants of $90,000 and $150,000 are helping shape the future of apprenticeship programs at CMU Tech
Colorado Mesa University marked a meaningful milestone on April 28 as it hosted its annual Apprenticeship Week celebration, bringing together apprentices, employers and community partners to spotlight the growing impact of hands-on learning and workforce development across the region.
The event served as both a recognition ceremony and a showcase of opportunity, highlighting the accomplishments of students enrolled in CMU’s apprenticeship programs — particularly those who completed their training during the 2025–2026 academic year. New grants were announced as well.
CMU Tech has been a driver of apprenticeship experience locally, and thanks to a $90,000 grant from El Pomar Foundation and a $150,000 grant from Colorado Apprenticeship Hub (CAH), students who pursue higher education at CMU Tech will have increased access to hands-on, career-applicable learning. The El Pomar Foundation grant funds will go towards expanding 10 total apprentice positions in HVAC, automotive technology, and medical assistant fields, while the CAH grant will focus on expanding a new apprenticeship program in HVAC.
Today, apprenticeship programs are playing an increasingly vital role in building sustainable career pathways, especially on the western slope. By combining classroom instruction with on-the-job training, CMU continues to strengthen connections between education and employment, ensuring students graduate with both knowledge, career readiness and networks with future employers.
The celebration also emphasized the importance of employer partnerships. Business partners were recognized for their commitment to mentoring apprentices and investing in the future workforce, including nine early childhood education partners, one medical assistant partner and one automotive technician partner. These collaborations are essential to maintaining a strong regional economy and addressing workforce needs in these key sectors.
A special acknowledgment was given to Kathleen Sparrow, Early Childhood Workforce Scholarship Specialist for the State of Colorado, who attended the event and has been a continued advocate for expanding access to apprenticeship opportunities. Her support has been instrumental in advancing early childhood education pathways within the program.
