Want to work with cannabis? NJ is seeking apprentices

Summary

New Jersey is launching a paid apprenticeship program aimed at individuals interested in pursuing careers in the cannabis retail sector. With $325,000 in funding from the New Jersey Department of Labor, the program will enroll 20 apprentices who will complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job training with cannabis employers, alongside 144 hours of instruction from Rowan University.

This initiative stands out as one of the first dedicated cannabis apprenticeship programs in the U.S., signaling a significant step toward formalizing training in a rapidly growing industry. The consortium behind the program aims to develop additional apprenticeship models in cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution, demonstrating a commitment to building a skilled workforce in the evolving cannabis sector.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This program highlights the growing recognition of apprenticeships as a viable pathway to employment in emerging industries. By integrating classroom instruction with hands-on experience, it provides a model that can be replicated in other sectors, ultimately strengthening the workforce and supporting the local economy.