Definitions

As used in this article 46.3, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Apprenticeship" means a registered apprenticeship program with a written plan that is designed to move an apprentice from a low- or no-skill entry-level position to full occupational proficiency. The program must comply with the parameters established under the federal "National Apprenticeship Act", 29 U.S.C. sec. 50, as amended, and regulations promulgated under the act, and must be administered by the United States department of labor or a state apprenticeship agency recognized by the United States department of labor. An individual business, an employer association, or a labor organization sponsors a registered apprenticeship. Upon finishing a training program, the apprentice earns a "completion of registered apprenticeship" certificate, which is an industry-issued and nationally recognized credential that validates proficiency in an apprenticeable occupation, or is awarded a certificate of completion. (2) "Career pathway" means a series of connected education and training strategies and support services that enable an individual to secure industry-relevant skills or certification where applicable, to obtain employment within an occupational area, and to advance to higher levels of future education and employment. (3) "Certificate of completion" means a certificate awarded to an apprentice in recognition of the successful completion of an apprenticeship program. (4) "Department" means the department of labor and employment. (5) "Federal act" means the federal "Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act", 29 U.S.C. sec. 3101 et seq. (6) "Growing industries" means industries that are: (a) Projected to create new jobs annually for at least the next ten years; or (b) Aligned with the state's economic development strategy. (6.5) [Editor's note: Subsection (6.5) is effective January 1, 2027.] "Older adult" means an individual who is fifty-five years old or older. (7) "Partners" means, at a minimum, state agencies and organizations described in section 24-46.3-103, the state board for community colleges and occupational education created in section 23-60-104, and interested postsecondary education providers. (8) "State council" means the state work force development council created in section 24-46.3-101 (1). (9) "Top jobs" means jobs that have strong projected average openings per year for ten years and pay a high wage as defined in the Colorado talent pipeline report prepared pursuant to section 24-46.3-103.