NJDOL GAINS grant | The Learning and Development Initiative

1. What is the NJIT GAINS program?

NJIT was recently awarded the NJDOL GAINS (Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors) program and is offering a program designed to address critical talent gaps in New Jersey’s technology landscape through Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs). The program aims to connect employers, educational institutions, and workforce development boards to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers. It focuses on inclusive, industry-aligned training to equip learners with career success tools and foster collaborative relationships among employers, educational institutions, and community organizations. Ultimately, it strengthens the recognition of Registered Apprenticeships as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s workforce readiness system, driving higher wages, broader employment opportunities, and long-term economic resilience across the state.

2. Who is eligible to participate in this program? Who is encouraged to participate in this program?

Applicants for NJIT Registered Apprenticeships must meet the following minimum qualifications:

Age/Demographics: All applicants must be 18 years of age and New Jersey residents at the time of application. Proof of birth date and completion of the Form I-9 with accompanying employment eligibility verification documents are required.
Education: A minimum of an 8th-grade education must be completed. Applicants must provide official transcripts for high school and post-high school education, including GED records if applicable. Military or veteran applicants may submit a DD-214 for consideration of military training/experience.
No cost to participants: Participants are not expected to pay to participate; in fact, the goal of apprenticeship is “earning while learning,” so that participants can work while they are receiving both classroom and on-the-job training.

The program specifically encourages and provides greater employment opportunities for members of disadvantaged classes, unemployed/dislocated workers, and students. The target population includes 10 youth, ages 18-24, with a focus on including 6 women, 2 K-12 Public School Students or county vocational school participants, and members of a Minority Group.

3. What kind of training does the program offer, how long does it take, and what is the format? Which two pathways are offered?

The program offers two pathways:

Hardware Hacker (Cybersecurity) and 2) Health IT Specialist

Both pathways include foundational IT coursework (Introduction to IT, Network Technology, and Computer Science). The training combines foundational coursework, targeted certification preparation, and on-the-job mentorship.

Hardware Hacker Pathway: This pathway provides a strong foundation in core IT disciplines and prepares participants for industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA IT Fundamentals. The training includes 38 hours each for Introduction to IT, Network Technology, and Computer Science courses, followed by 30 hours of CompTIA IT Fundamentals and certification test prep. The courses meet twice per week for two hours per session. The total estimated instructional hours are 144 over approximately 16 months.
Health IT Specialist Pathway: This pathway also includes the foundational IT courses (Introduction to IT, Network Technology, and Computer Science) (38 hours each) followed by a 30-hour Microsoft 365 Fundamentals and Administrator (or similar Microsoft certification) test prep course. This certification aligns with healthcare technology environments that rely on Microsoft tools for system integration, data management, and compliance. The total estimated instructional hours are 144 over approximately 16 months.

The program integrates on-the-job training (OJT), mentorship, and applied learning experiences, allowing apprentices to demonstrate and refine their skills in real work environments.

4. When does the program begin and end? What is the ultimate goal of the program?

NJIT is recruiting candidates to begin formally in September 2025, while the grant runs through December 15, 2026. This program aims to strengthen New Jersey’s workforce readiness system, drive higher wages, broaden employment opportunities, and achieve long-term economic resilience across the state. National attention has been drawn recently to the importance of apprenticeships and the desire to grow them across the US.

5. Are there any stipends or reimbursements available for participants?

Apprentices will earn a starting wage of $17 per hour for the duration of their 2,000-hour on-the-job training and then are eligible to receive increases. This compensation ensures apprentices receive a livable entry wage.

6. What kind of jobs can participants expect to get after completing the program? How much do these roles receive in NJ based on O*net?

After completing the program, participants can expect to secure full-time, entry-level roles in either the Hardware Hacker (Cybersecurity) or Health IT Specialist fields26.

Hardware Hacker (Cybersecurity): The median salary in New Jersey for this role is about $104,920/year.
Health IT Specialist: The median salary in New Jersey for this role is about $62,990/year.

7. How can interested people apply for the program?

The program aims to recruit participants locally by partnering with regional workforce boards, such as the Essex and Newark Workforce Development Boards (WDB), as well as NJ high schools and CTEs. Please contact stefanie.toye@njit.edu for more information about applying or seek assistance at your school, and/or your local WDB or One-Stop Center.

8. What if my small business or company is interested in becoming an employer sponsor? What are the benefits and expectations?

NJIT actively seeks employer partners for the GAINS program and if your company is interested, please email stefanie.toye@njit.edu. Employer sponsors play a crucial role and receive several benefits, and can commit to sponsoring 1 apprentice or more!

Wage Offset: The program provides a significant wage subsidy of $5 per hour from the grant for each apprentice for up to 1,600 of their 2,000-hours on-the-job training (total of $8,000 per apprentice). This reduces the hiring cost for your business.
Access to Skilled and Committed Talent: You gain access to a pipeline of pre-screened and trained individuals ready to contribute to your workforce. Employment Retention for apprentices is approximately 90% after apprenticeship completion. See more at https://www.apprenticeship.gov/employers/explore-apprenticeship
Your Input Matters: Apprentices receive industry-aligned training based upon what employers like you are seeking, ensuring they acquire skills directly relevant to your company's needs.

Expectations of Employer Sponsors:

Interviewing and Selection: Employer sponsors are expected to participate in the interviewing and selection process of apprentices to ensure a good fit for their company culture and job requirements.
Provide Devices: Employers are typically expected to provide the necessary tools and equipment for apprentices to perform their on-the-job duties effectively, including devices such as laptops and accessories.
Oversee On-the-Job Training (OJT) Schedule: Employer sponsors are responsible for overseeing the on-the-job training schedule, providing a structured learning environment, and ensuring apprentices gain practical experience aligned with the program's objectives. This includes providing mentorship and guidance.
Collaboration: Employers are expected to collaborate with NJIT and workforce development boards to ensure the success of the apprenticeship program.

9. Where can I find more information about the grant and related resources?

For more information about the grant and related resources, you can contact Stefanie Toye at stefanie.toye@njit.edu.

The funding for this program has been generously provided by the NJDOL GAINS grant.