MSU-WP student completes new registered apprenticeship program

Published 12:30 am Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Officials with the Office of Workforce Development and Community Education at Missouri State University-West Plains recently celebrated the completion of the university’s first Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program by student Shawna Hammon, who completed the program as a child care development specialist.

The program was a partnership between MSU-WP’s Office of Workforce Development and Community Education and Ozark Action Inc. The pilot program was designed to explore the feasibility of registered apprenticeships and help develop a process for MSU-WP to offer them to interested students and employers in the future.

A Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship is an industry-driven “earn while you learn” career pathway that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The model allows apprentices to gain practical experience while completing the education and training needed for a skilled occupation.

For Hammon, the program provided an opportunity to complete her degree in child and family development while working full time at an Ozark Action Head Start facility.

While completing her apprenticeship, Hammon attended classes at MSU-WP and received on-the-job training under the supervision of mentors Holly Tucker and Angie Kinder.

The Registered Apprenticeship model also provides a structured path for career advancement. Apprentices are hired at an apprentice-level salary and receive guaranteed pay increases during the program. Upon completion, apprentices earn a journeyman’s wage in their selected field.

“Registered Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for businesses to help meet their employment and training needs,” said Trevor Cressman, director of workforce development and community education at MSU-WP. “The opportunity to earn a paycheck while gaining experience and completing education is invaluable for a student.”

MSU-WP’s Office of Workforce Development and Community Education is exploring opportunities to expand Registered Apprenticeships with local businesses. Participating businesses also may be eligible for state and federal incentives.

Training options are flexible and may include opportunities not available through other workforce training programs.

Students or businesses interested in learning more about Registered Apprenticeships may contact the MSU-WP Office of Workforce Development and Community Education at WPWorkforce@MissouriState.edu or 417-255-7784.