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DENVER, CO – The House Education Committee today passed bipartisan legislation to expand postsecondary education opportunities to strengthen Colorado’s workforce. HB25-1221 sponsored by Representative Eliza Hamrick, would allow the Emily Griffith Technical College to offer an associate’s degree to students participating in registered apprenticeship programs.
“We’re working hard to address Colorado’s ever-evolving workforce needs, and this bill helps ensure students involved in apprenticeship programs can pursue associate degrees that will lead to good-paying jobs,” said Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “Our bipartisan bill supports students by breaking down barriers, expanding access to higher education and fostering strong pathways to jobs in high-demand fields after graduation. The new associate’s degree program at Emily Griffith Technical College will create new low-cost opportunities for students to pursue higher education and help meet Colorado's workforce needs.”
HB25-1221, also sponsored by Representative Lori Garcia Sander, R-Eaton, passed committee by a vote of 13-0. To meet workforce needs, this bill would allow the
Emily Griffith Technical College to offer an associate’s degree of applied science for students participating in qualified apprenticeship programs.
This bill aims to break down barriers for students wanting to pursue an associate’s degree while participating in an apprenticeship program. Registered apprenticeship programs at the Emily Griffith Technical College are work-based learning experiences that are overseen by both the college and an employer. Approximately 5,300 students at Emily Griffith Technical College participate in an apprenticeship program.
HB25-1221 would strengthen Colorado’s workforce by ensuring students are enrolled in programs that align with in-demand industries and good-paying jobs.