Summary
Karen Cantrell, a longtime resident of Elko, Nevada, is transforming her career from a lunch lady to a future teacher through UNLV’s Nevada Forward™ apprenticeship program. Currently a paraprofessional supporting special education students at Mountain View Elementary, Karen is pursuing her teaching degree while benefiting from the program's mentorship and community support.
This journey underscores the importance of apprenticeship programs that facilitate career advancement within local communities. With a focus on earn-and-learn opportunities, such programs empower individuals to enhance their skills while remaining rooted in their home environments, ultimately contributing to a stronger workforce and educational landscape.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
Karen's story highlights the vital role of registered apprenticeship programs in providing structured pathways for career development. By combining work with education, these initiatives not only enhance individual skill sets but also strengthen community ties, making a lasting impact on local economies and educational systems.
Made in the USA.