Gov. Spencer Cox and Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson announced the launch of the Lieutenant Governor’s returnship initiative to expand workforce opportunities in Utah. A returnship, similar to an internship, provides an important opportunity for those re-entering the workforce after an absence to build their resume and gain current and relevant experience. 

In addition to an executive order for state agencies to create more opportunities, $15 million in new grant funding will be initiated for the Learn & Work program. The Learn & Work program supplies funding to Utah colleges and universities to provide no-cost training to qualified students. Programs, including returnships developed between education and industry partners, will be prioritized for funding.

“The Utah System of Higher Education is proud to partner with our local employers through Learn & Work in Utah,” said Dave R. Woolstenhulme, Utah Commissioner for Higher Education. “Our training programs and partnerships with employers are intended to connect individuals with career opportunities while providing employers with a well-prepared workforce.”

Students are expected to begin enrolling in Learn & Work programs on June 1, 2021. More information to come.

Read more: governor.utah.gov/2021/04/01/returnship-initiative/