The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is excited to announce the launch of Goextra.org, a new website dedicated to sharing Virginia Registered Apprenticeship opportunities and resources as well as highlighting programs in the Southern Virginia region. The Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) initiative aims to serve employers, adult job seekers, high school students and their parents, and related technical instruction providers.
“We are committed to building strong apprenticeship programs that meet the needs of our community and local industries. This new informational website for ExTRA is an exciting step towards creating more opportunities that benefit Southern Virginia’s workforce and employers.” – Natori Neal, Apprenticeship Coordinator at IALR
ExTRA is intentionally designed to enhance Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across key industries, including construction, healthcare, early childhood education, manufacturing, hospitality and information technology. The ExTRA website provides a comprehensive resource that connects individuals with high-quality, industry-driven workforce training programs.
As a state apprenticeship intermediary, the ExTRA team at IALR offers comprehensive support including stakeholder education, technical assistance, grant funding, and connections to both employers and talent. Additionally, IALR’s ExTRA program provides access to a growing consortium network. Services cater to businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises with a few employees to large organizations with hundreds of workers.
“Apprenticeships are critical to our region’s economic development. By connecting employers with eager learners, we are contributing to a robust pipeline of skilled talent that will drive growth and success across many different industries.” – Dr. Julie Brown, Vice President of Advanced Learning, IALR
Registered Apprenticeship is a proven model that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to develop highly skilled employees. Apprentices receive paid training, and their compensation increases as they achieve specific skills and milestones. Upon completion of the program, apprentices earn a portable, nationally recognized credential demonstrating journey worker-level proficiency. This blend of practical experience and formal education not only equips individuals to train future apprentices but also ensures a continuous flow of skilled talent for businesses.
Since 2022, IALR’s ExTRA program has helped register more than 60 apprentices and 25 apprenticeship programs, with many more in development. This program provides crucial support, including stakeholder education, technical assistance, grant funding, and connections to employers and talent. The program is funded through a $497,890 grant from the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, which was awarded in late 2022.
The new website provides information and resources for three main audiences. Career seekers will find resources to explore and apply for RA opportunities. Employers may learn and inquire about developing or registering RA programs to meet their employment needs. Students and parents can discover the viability of a career path founded in Registered Apprenticeship — connecting with resources and opportunities for involvement.
About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation through applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s primary footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg, along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
About ExTRA
Administered by IALR, the Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program supports the growth of apprenticeship opportunities across Southern Virginia. As a state apprenticeship intermediary, the ExTRA team at IALR provides stakeholder education, technical assistance, grant funding, connections to employers and talent, and access to a consortium network. IALR’s ExTRA program supports employers of all sizes, ranging from small businesses with just a handful of employees to large organizations with hundreds of employees.
