Big Win for Apprenticeship Education: EGTC Approved to Offer Associate Degrees

Emilio Fuentes
May 1, 2025
#iecrmawards, #IECRMCares, #WeAreIEC, Grant Opportunities, IEC Convention, IECRM Community Outreach, IECRM MEMBER FORUMS, IECRM News, Events & Industry Updates

We’re excited to share monumental news for IECRM’s Electrical Apprenticeship Training Partner, Emily Griffith Technical College (EGTC) — Governor Polis has officially signed HB25-1221 into law, granting EGTC the authority to offer Associate Degrees for Apprenticeships.

This historic legislation applies to all apprenticeship programs accredited by EGTC, including the IECRM Electrical Apprenticeship Program. It opens new doors for both current and future apprentices:

High school students in Denver Public Schools can now earn college credit hours before entering an apprenticeship program.
Current and past IECRM apprentices can now pursue an Associate Degree through EGTC without needing to transfer transcripts or credits to another institution.

IECRM CEO Marilyn Akers Stansbury, and other key industry trade stakeholders, testified in support of HB25-1221 and worked closely with Emily Griffith Technical College to advocate for its passage. It is a powerful example of what industry collaboration can accomplish when working together to strengthen the skilled trades and workforce pipeline.

We also recognize and thank our Electrical Contractor Members and Industry Partners, whose ongoing support of IECRM’s Government Relations Committee makes these advocacy wins possible. Together, we are building a brighter, stronger future for the electrical and renewable energy industry.

This progress is further bolstered by recent changes allowing CollegeInvest 529 Plan funds to be used toward apprenticeship expenses — creating an even more supported, affordable, and accessible path for students and families choosing careers in the skilled trades.

“I am so profoundly thankful for the time, support, compelling testimony – and partnership, that each of you invested into this successful journey. Quite simply, HB25-1221 would not have happened without you. On behalf of the thousands of future apprentices that earn their degree, on behalf of EGTC, and from me personally – thank you.”
— Randy Johnson, Executive Director, EGTC