Meyer signs first executive order to develop youth apprenticeships

In his first action as governor, Gov. Matt Meyer set up shop backstage of his inauguration Jan. 21, and signed an executive order to prioritize apprenticeships for youth.

“If we’re serious about educating our kids, then we need to be serious about the opportunities we want them to have,” Meyer said.

The order creates a 15-member working group from across the labor sector, education and other nongovernmental groups to develop policies to expand youth apprenticeships and workforce development across the state.

The turnaround is quick – 30 days after the working group’s first meeting, they are expected to submit a report recommending ways for schools to facilitate youth employment in state government, increase apprenticeships in state government and draft any necessary legislation.

Meyer said youth programs are needed for working families in order to grow Delaware’s economy.