CareerWise President Brent Parton testified before the House Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development at the hearing “Building an AI-Ready America: Strengthening Employer-Led Training.”

Parton emphasized the central role of apprenticeship in preparing the next generation of talent: “Employer-led training is core to our DNA. Apprenticeship is not just a job; it’s a foundation in the critical post high school years for building a meaningful career.”

He also highlighted the urgency of employer leadership as AI transforms work: “AI is rewriting the first rungs of the career ladder. Industry has to play a bigger role at every level, and apprenticeship is a key to ensure students and workers share in the productive advances AI can bring.”

CareerWise partners with employers, schools, and workforce organizations in over 15 states, serving nearly 2,600 youth across 25+ occupations. Apprentices have earned over $37 million in wages while in school, and 93% of graduates are employed in their field or pursuing postsecondary education.

Parton’s testimony underscored that federal policy must prioritize employer-led training, sector-based strategies, and youth-focused pathways to prepare students and workers for the economy of tomorrow.

Watch the full hearing here.