The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) are marking September as Workforce Development Month, focusing on efforts to build a skilled workforce that meets employer needs across the state.
As part of this recognition, CDE has been formally designated as a Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediary by Apprenticeship Colorado, which operates within CDLE’s Office of the Future of Work. This designation highlights CDE’s leadership in expanding Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) that link students and educators with career pathways in high-demand fields. With this status, CDE is now listed on the State Apprenticeship Agency’s website—a resource for sponsors, employers, and job seekers—and becomes eligible for future competitive funding opportunities.
“Expanding teacher apprenticeships is critical to ensuring every Colorado student has a great educator in their classroom,” said Susana Córdova, Colorado Education Commissioner. “This recognition allows CDE to support districts in developing apprenticeship models that strengthen the teacher pipeline and provide aspiring educators with high-quality, hands-on pathways into the profession.”
CDE joins other organizations recognized as intermediaries that connect learners to careers while helping businesses develop talent through apprenticeship expansion. These groups play an important role in supporting both job seekers and employers.
“Apprenticeships are a powerful way to create career pathways for Coloradans while meeting the workforce needs of Colorado employers,” said Denise Miller, Director of Apprenticeship Colorado at CDLE. “We are proud to recognize CDE among the 12 new Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries that will strengthen and expand apprenticeship opportunities across our state.”
Workforce Development Month is observed each September to highlight workforce strategies and partnerships aimed at strengthening Colorado’s economy. During this month, CDLE and its partners organize events, share resources, and recognize those advancing workforce development.
In 2024, 35 organizations were first recognized as Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries under HB21-1007: State Apprenticeship Agency. This year, 12 more—including CDE—received recognition alongside other agencies such as the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and the Colorado Energy Office.
Qualified Apprenticeship Intermediaries fall into two categories: industry intermediaries help employers reduce administrative barriers when implementing apprenticeships; talent intermediaries support job seekers—especially those facing employment challenges—by connecting them with opportunities and resources needed for success.
The CDLE works toward creating an inclusive economy by assisting both employers and workers through recruitment support, economic updates, job training programs, career counseling services, unemployment insurance administration, paid family leave insurance programs, consumer protection initiatives, and safety programs. More information about CDLE can be found at https://cdle.colorado.gov/.
The mission of the Colorado Department of Education is to improve student outcomes statewide by serving all school districts with guidance intended to ensure access to quality education environments for every student.
