(1) There is created the Talent Ready Utah Program administered by the commissioner.
(2) The commissioner, with the approval of the board, shall appoint a director of the talent program.
(3) The director of the talent program:
(a) shall appoint, with the approval of the commissioner, an apprenticeship intermediary, to carry out the duties described in Subsection (5); and
(b) may appoint other staff with the approval of the commissioner.
(4) The talent program shall coordinate with the talent board to:
(a) further education and industry alignment in the state;
(b) coordinate the development of new education programs that align with industry demand;
(c) coordinate or partner with other state agencies to administer grant programs;
(d) promote the inclusion of industry partners in education;
(e) provide outreach and information to employers regarding workforce programs and initiatives;
(f) develop and analyze stackable credential programs;
(g) determine efficiencies among workforce providers;
(h) map available workforce programs focusing on programs that successfully create high-paying jobs; and
(i) support initiatives of the talent board.
(5) The apprenticeship intermediary appointed by the director under Subsection (3) shall, in coordination with the talent program and at the direction of the talent board, foster relationships between industry partners, local education agencies, and the talent program, including by:
(a) increasing awareness for the talent program;
(b) recruiting industry partners;
(c) connecting high school students to participating employers, apprenticeship opportunities, and work-based learning opportunities;
(d) working with local education agencies to:
(i) integrate talent program apprenticeship opportunities and work-based learning opportunities;
(ii) connect high school students with higher education opportunities;
(e) training mentors at participating employers in vocational education practices for youth;
(f) holding meetings with education partners and industry partners to discuss curriculum needs and industry needs;
(g) working with institutions of higher education and local education agencies to ensure industry-recognized credential programs are fully stackable; and
(h) performing other duties as directed by the talent board.