A group of 45 educators, workforce professionals, and youth-serving organizations came together on January 21, 2026 for a virtual Lunch & Learn on Registered Apprenticeships, hosted by the Future Workforce Alliance Snohomish County in partnership with Snohomish STEM, Workforce Snohomish, and the Snohomish & Island County Labor Council.
The session explored how registered apprenticeship programs are helping connect young adults ages 16-24 to in-demand, family-wage careers across industries critical to Snohomish County’s economy.
The event was emceed by Charlotte Murry, representing both the Future Workforce Alliance Board and the Snohomish & Island County Labor Council (SICLC). Charlotte guided the discussion and engaged attendees with live polling throughout the session, creating an interactive learning experience for participants.
Industry Experts Share Insights
Participants heard from leaders across several apprenticeship programs and industry sectors:
- Erin Williams and Chris Pierson, AJAC Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships
- Gary Kiehl, IAM/Boeing Joint Programs Apprenticeship – Puget Sound
- Bryan Johnson, Iron Workers Local Union 86
Together, the panelists highlighted how apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom learning, allowing participants to develop valuable technical skills while earning a wage.
Speakers also emphasized the importance of strong employer partnerships and supportive networks to help young people successfully navigate career pathways in manufacturing, aerospace, construction, and other skilled trades.
Growing Awareness of Apprenticeship Pathways
Interactive polls during the event helped capture audience feedback and learning outcomes.
When asked whether the webinar increased their awareness of registered apprenticeships, 79% of participants said their awareness increased, demonstrating the value of creating opportunities for educators and workforce partners to learn directly from apprenticeship leaders.
Participants also shared which industries they would like to explore in future sessions. Healthcare (52%) and Advanced Manufacturing (44%) were the most requested topics, highlighting strong interest in learning more about career pathways in these sectors.
Expanding Access to Career Pathways
Events like this Lunch & Learn help strengthen connections between youth-serving organizations, workforce partners, educators, and industry leaders, ensuring more young adults can access information about high-quality career opportunities available in their communities.
By increasing awareness of apprenticeship pathways alongside other education and training options, regional partners are working together to expand access to meaningful careers and support the development of a strong local workforce.
Snohomish STEM is grateful to the Future Workforce Alliance Snohomish County, Workforce Snohomish, and the Snohomish & Island County Labor Council for their partnership in hosting this conversation and to the industry leaders who shared their expertise with attendees.
📺 Watch the webinar recording:
Click here to access the recording
Passcode: XK93^W#f
