Wireless Infrastructure Association launches apprenticeship incentive fund

The Wireless Infrastructure Association, working with the U.S. Department of Labor, has opened applications for a $29.9 million fund that rewards registered apprenticeship sponsors and employers for expanding and completing telecommunications workforce training.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening the workforce that builds and maintains telecommunications networks, including broadband and digital infrastructure. WIA has supported registered apprenticeship expansion in telecommunications and broadband, training more than 7,600 apprentices across 16 broadband and wireless occupations and distributing more than $2.3 million in incentive funding.

Eligible sponsors may earn up to $6,000 per qualifying apprentice through milestone-based payments tied to retention, related technical instruction, and program completion. Incentives apply to newly registered apprentices whose enrollment exceeds a growth baseline of 125 percent of the sponsor’s median active apprentice count for the applicable three-year period. All payments depend on program requirements, eligibility verification, and available funds.

The program is open to registered apprenticeship sponsors, including individual employers, in good standing that train apprentices in qualifying telecommunications occupations. Participating sponsors complete a streamlined onboarding process and earn incentives as apprentices reach verified milestones. The period of performance runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030. WIA manages one of five pay-for-performance incentive payment programs the Department of Labor established to increase apprenticeships across skilled trades.

“People are what turn infrastructure investment into the high-speed networks that keep Americans connected, and apprenticeships are one of the best ways to build and retain that skilled workforce,” said Tim House, Executive Vice President and COO, WIA.

“We have seen how registered apprenticeships help employers build a skilled workforce while creating career opportunities for workers,” said Deb Bennett, Vice President of Apprenticeship, WIA. Sponsors can expect help with eligibility, onboarding, and earning incentives as their apprentices succeed.