E17:  A BIG STEP Forward: Preparing Talent for Apprenticeship Success

E17: A BIG STEP Forward: Preparing Talent for Apprenticeship Success

From Workforce on the Mic: Presented by NAWDP by NAWDP

January 21, 2026 · 24 min

About this episode

Lindsay Blumer discusses apprenticeship readiness and the importance of aligning education with job opportunities.

In this episode, we're joined by Lindsay Blumer, President and CEO of WRTP | BIG STEP, for a timely conversation on apprenticeship readiness and why it matters more than ever in today's workforce landscape. Lindsay explores how earn-and-learn models are opening doors to high-demand careers, creating equitable and industry-led pathways, and aligning education with real-world job opportunities. Drawing on her experience leading a statewide workforce intermediary in Wisconsin, she shares insights on preparing individuals with the confidence, core skills, and support systems needed to succeed—while also helping employers build strong, sustainable talent pipelines that benefit workers, industries, and communities alike.

People in this episode

Guest: Lindsay Blumer

Topics covered

  • apprenticeship readiness
  • earn-and-learn models
  • workforce development
  • talent pipelines
  • education alignment

Keywords

  • apprenticeship
  • workforce
  • talent development
  • education
  • career pathways

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: WRTP | BIG STEP

Places: Wisconsin

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