Alabama Office of Apprenticeship Partners with Vectorply Corporation to Expand Youth Pathways into Registered Apprenticeship

March 13, 2026

Alabama Office of Apprenticeship Partners with Vectorply Corporation to Expand Youth Pathways into Registered Apprenticeship

Montgomery, Ala. - Vectorply Corporation, in partnership with Central High School in Phenix City, Alabama, is launching a youth pathway into registered apprenticeship in Spring 2026. The program is supported by the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship of the Alabama Department of Workforce, which serves as the registration agency. This opportunity creates early career opportunities for high school students ages 17 and older to enter advanced manufacturing careers.

Vectorply Corporation has joined trailblazing Alabama manufacturers committed to employing high school students in their registered apprenticeship. This apprenticeship is designed to prepare future operators to work in a highly complex manufacturing facility used to produce advanced composite reinforcement materials. These products are used across multiple industries, including marine, automotive, construction, and other high-performance applications.

Students participating in the program must be enrolled in an approved Career and Technical Education pathway including welding, masonry, construction technology, and modern manufacturing. The apprenticeship also provides students with paid, structured, on-the-job learning while they complete their education, and combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning to provide real-world experience, industry-recognized skills, and a direct pathway to long-term employment.

"Programs like this demonstrate how registered apprenticeship can begin earlier and work better for both students and employers," said Meredith Smith, Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. "By engaging youth at age 17 and older, Alabama companies are building a stronger, more sustainable workforce while giving students meaningful career opportunities."

Vectorply Corporation's participation reflects a growing interest among Alabama manufacturers in developing local talent and investing in the next generation of skilled workers.

"This program reflects who we are as a company-innovators who invest in people. By welcoming youth apprentices into our advanced manufacturing operations, we're opening doors to long-term careers while strengthening our local workforce. We're excited to show students what's possible in high-performance manufacturing and to grow Alabama talent for the next generation," said Trevor Humphrey, CEO and President of Vectorply Corporation.

Call for Additional Employer Partners

The Alabama Office of Apprenticeship is actively seeking additional employers interested in creating youth pathways into registered apprenticeship programs. Companies across manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and other high-demand industries are encouraged to explore how apprenticeship can support workforce development while creating early career opportunities for Alabama students.

Employers interested in partnering with the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship can learn more at alapprentice.org

The Alabama Department of Workforce and the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship continue to work with education, healthcare, and industry partners statewide to expand apprenticeship opportunities that meet employer needs and create meaningful career pathways for Alabamians.