Larimer County Economic and Workforce Development (LCEWD) has long been committed to fostering local economic growth and supporting workforce development initaitives. In partnership with Independent Plumbing Solutions (IPS), LCEWD made a significant impact on the lives of eight plumbing apprentices through the utilzation of IDEA funds and the launch of IPS’s IDEA-Initiated Registered Apprenticeship Program. This collaboration provided vital support to IPS’s apprenticeship program, allowing the company to grow its workforce while offering critical hands-on training to aspiring plumbers. LCEWD used IDEA funds to cover the first year of training for 8 apprentices, ensuring that these individuals could focus on gaining the skills needed for success in the trade. Each apprentice also received a $1,000 tool kit, a crucial investmentnthat not only equipped them with the tools necessary for their work but also increased their productivity and skill development.In total, each apprentice received $2,500 in support from LCEWD, which helped jumpstart their careers in plumbing. The tool kits, in particular, proved invaluable, enabling the apprentices to take on more complex tasks, enhance their technical abilities, and progress toward their ultimate goal of becoming Journeyman plumbers. For IPS, this partnership was transformative. With the financial backing from IDEA funds, the company was able to hire additional apprentices directly addressing the local demand for skilled plumbers. As a result, IPS’s ability to serve its customers has grown, and the apprentices have gained valuable experience to benefit their future careers. This successful collaboration described above exemplifies the power of community-driven economic development. By investing in the next generation of skilled workers, this partnership not only supports individual career growth but also strengthens the local economy, ensuring that Larimer County continues to thrive.
