FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MnTech and Apprenti Partner to Build AI-Ready Workforce Across Minnesota
Partnership will help employers access apprenticeship and work-based learning to develop AI skills among new hires and current employees
Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS — [September 29, 2026] — The Minnesota Technology Association (MnTech) and Apprenti today announced a partnership to address critical Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills gaps. Apprenti, a strategic workforce partner and member of MnTech , will collaborate with the association to deliver scalable, work-based learning models and Registered Apprenticeship pathways to its member employers for new talent and existing employees in Minnesota.
While 83% of organizations identify AI adoption as a top business priority for 2026 according to the IBM Global AI Adoption Index, many businesses remain trapped in an “implementation fog”: They struggle to find workers who are capable of leveraging AI tools to increase productivity. Traditional, classroom-only AI training fails to bridge this gap because it lacks practical integration into daily workflows. Apprenti resolves this challenge by delivering hands-on learning experiences grounded in work-based learning, structured Related Technical Instruction (RTI), and mentored on-the-job training (OJT).
MnTech members will be able to work with Apprenti, an association member, to build Registered Apprenticeship and work-based upskilling programs for new hires and current employees. Apprenti’s model combines structured technical instruction with mentored, on-the-job training so participants can apply new skills in their roles.
As businesses invest in AI tools, many still lack employees with the practical skills to integrate those tools into day-to-day operations. The partnership will help employers develop AI capabilities within technical occupations and business functions such as human resources, finance and marketing.
“Minnesota’s future depends on the strength of our technology talent,” said Rosie Nestingen, Vice President of Talent at MnTech. “We’re committed to exploring creative ways to transform talent and build the next generation of technology leaders. We’re excited to collaborate with Apprenti as one of those ways. Our goal is simple: help our members hire, inspire, attract and retain technology talent in Minnesota.”
The partnership supports MnTech ’s broader strategy to help Minnesota employers attract, develop and retain talent. It also reflects the expanding role of apprenticeship as a workforce development tool for both new hires and incumbent employees.
“Apprenticeship gives employers a structured way to build the skills their businesses need while employees gain experience using those skills on the job,” said Becky DeMatteis, Channel Partner Program Manager at Apprenti. “By working with MnTech , we can help Minnesota employers make AI adoption practical, measurable and connected to their workforce strategies.”
For participating employers, Apprenti will manage the apprenticeship infrastructure, including candidate sourcing and assessment, curriculum and compliance. The organizations will work with employers to tailor occupational standards to their workforce needs and identify available federal, state and regional workforce funding.
MnTech and Apprenti will discuss the partnership with employers at the MnTech Talent Conference on Oct. 2, 2026, at Best Buy headquarters. Employers can also contact MnTech or Apprenti to learn more. Conference information and registration are available at mntech.org/mntech-talent-2026.
About Apprenti
Apprenti is the nation’s leading Registered Apprenticeship Intermediary. We deliver Registered Apprenticeship programs for 30+ occupations that enable your current employees and new hires across high-demand STEM industries, including technology, healthcare, human resources, advanced manufacturing, banking & finance, and the life sciences. We offer a proven path to high retention and measurable ROI.
Founded in 2016, Apprenti has trained over 6,500 apprentices and over 350 companies, and continues to scale its work. By connecting individuals without traditional postsecondary degrees to structured, earn-and-learn career pathways, Apprenti creates economic mobility for workers and sustainable talent solutions for employers.
Learn more at apprenticareers.org.
About the Minnesota Technology Association
The Minnesota Technology Association (MnTech) is a member-driven trade association representing technology organizations and tech-enabled businesses across Minnesota. MnTech works to grow and sustain the state’s technology ecosystem through talent development, public policy advocacy, networking and strategic industry partnerships. Learn more at mntech.org.
Media Contact:
Program Contacts
MN TECH
Rosie Nestingen, Vice President of Talent
rosie@mntech.org
Apprenti
Becky DeMatteis, Partner Program Manager
bdematteis@apprenticareers.org
