Want to work with cannabis? NJ is seeking apprentices - nj1015.com

Summary

New Jersey is launching a paid cannabis apprenticeship program, inviting applications for its first round this summer. Funded by a $325,000 grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor, the initiative will support 20 apprentices who will gain hands-on experience with cannabis employers while completing 144 hours of online and in-person education through Rowan University.

This program represents a significant step in creating a skilled workforce for the cannabis retail sector, one of the first of its kind in the nation. It highlights a collaborative effort among various organizations and institutions to develop training models that could extend into other areas of the cannabis industry, such as cultivation and manufacturing.

Why this matters for apprenticeships

This apprenticeship program exemplifies the growing trend of earn-and-learn opportunities in emerging industries. It not only provides valuable skills to apprentices but also helps employers find qualified candidates, ultimately strengthening the workforce in a sector that is rapidly evolving.