Elon University
IN-48: Innovation B

Facilities Management (previously called Physical Plant) received approval to implement an Apprenticeship Program in February 2021 and welcomed the first apprentice into the program in August 2021. The purpose of the Apprenticeship Program is to train and advance promising Elon University employees, especially those from historically underrepresented groups, to fill critically needed, licensed trade positions within Elon University’s Facilities Management department with highly skilled employees and increase both the diversity within departments and the equity for employees. The four to five-year program provides advancement opportunities into the skilled construction trades, which typically command higher wages. Participants will obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction and nationally recognized skill credentials. Expenses associated with instructional courses, such as tuition, fees and books, will be funded through grants available through ApprenticeshipNC or will be supported by the university if grant funding is not available. The program is registered through the NC Community College System’s ApprenticeshipNC initiative and the US Department of Labor. Apprentices who complete their instruction and on-the-job training requirements receive a certificate of completion and a nationally recognized journey level occupational credential from ApprenticeshipNC and the U.S. Department of Labor.
As of December 2021, two apprentices have enrolled in the program. A locksmith apprentice started in August 2021 and a carpenter apprentice started in November 2021. Facilities Management will continue to grow the apprenticeship program as new positions are added through budget increases or as existing positions become vacant.
This program is unique in that it promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within Facilities Management, while training the next generation of Facilities Management professionals. This program will provide an avenue for entry into the licensed trades and encourages opportunities for promotion to employees who have not had the opportunity or means to learn a trade. By providing training and education for those individuals who may not have previously had the opportunity to develop the skills required of a licensed trade, Elon University Facilities Management has placed an emphasis on developing its current workforce to continue to ensure that it is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.