The Utah System of Higher Education’s Talent Ready Utah and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) formalized a landmark partnership with the Republic of Austria on November 18, 2024 through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement, signed at the Utah State Capitol, establishes a framework for collaboration to enhance the state’s youth apprenticeship model, Talent Ready Apprenticeship Connection (TRAC), career and technical education (CTE) and technical college apprenticeship programs (TCAP) in Utah and Austria.
“The Utah System of Higher Education and Talent Ready Utah are honored to formalize this significant partnership with the Republic of Austria,” said Vic Hockett, Associate Commissioner of Talent Ready Utah. “This collaboration will allow us to exchange invaluable insights, ultimately enhancing and expanding our apprenticeship pathways to benefit students across Utah.”
The ceremony was witnessed by Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson; Her Excellency Dr. Petra Schneebauer, Ambassador of Austria to the United States; and other dignitaries and state leaders.
“It was an honor to witness this historic signing, which expands educational opportunities for Utahns,” said Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson. “These vital apprenticeship programs bridge the gap between education and industry, offering Utahns a direct pathway to rewarding careers in our diverse and thriving workforce. Our international partnership with Austria, a global leader in apprenticeship education, will strengthen and empower our workforce and ensure a bright future for our state.”
“Austria, along with Germany and Switzerland, has been a pioneer in apprenticeship-based education, working to address the pressing challenges resulting from skills shortages,” said Ambassador Dr. Petra Schneebauer. “We are eager to share our expertise with Utah to create opportunities for authorities, businesses and individuals to work together to expand and enhance apprenticeship programs in both countries.”
The MOU outlines shared goals to diversify and improve apprenticeship programs, foster partnerships among industry, education and government and explore student exchanges between Utah and Austria. It also emphasizes joint efforts to increase the availability and quality of apprenticeships in emerging industries, ensuring that students gain both technical skills and workplace experience.
“Education shapes the future of society, and programs like TRAC, CTE, and TCAP are vital for building a skilled workforce,” said Ryan Starks, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. “Our collaboration with international leaders like Austria highlights how global partnerships can strengthen economies, create trade opportunities, and equip the next generation for career success.”
The MOU, effective immediately, designates Utah’s Talent Ready Utah and Austria’s Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy as the primary coordinators for this initiative. Plans include expert exchanges, pilot projects across USHE institutions and working groups to share best practices in apprenticeship training and career education.
“Collaboration on a global scale is essential to tackle future workforce challenges,” said Geoff Landward, Utah Commissioner of Higher Education. “By integrating Utah’s forward-thinking education strategies with Austria’s strong apprenticeship programs, we can more effectively equip students for in-demand careers.”
