Sixth Pinnacol apprentice earns state recognition, underscoring Pinnacol’s apprenticeship program as a workforce development model
Denver, CO – Nov. 19, 2024 – Pinnacol Assurance, Colorado’s leading workers’ compensation insurer, is proud to announce that Pinnacol youth apprentice An “Andy” Tran was named Outstanding Apprentice of the Year by the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment and Apprenticeship Colorado for his dedication, innovative thinking and commitment to making a positive impact.
As a third-year apprentice and sophomore at the University of Colorado Denver, Andy has excelled in his role as a creative tech apprentice, contributing to key projects in data science, Salesforce development, and product development.
"Andy consistently exceeds expectations," said Kenzee Sisson, Andy’s supervisor and Pinnacol senior product designer. "His curiosity, motivation, and meticulous eye for detail make him a true asset. Andy's work directly supports our team's top priorities and contributes significantly to our overall success."
Andy, a first-generation Vietnamese American immigrant, is also actively involved in mentoring other apprentices, particularly those from underrepresented groups, and fostering a culture of inclusion at Pinnacol.
”Andy is the ‘unofficial leader of our team,’” said Julie Wilmes, Pinnacol apprenticeship program manager. “He fosters a supportive environment where apprentices collaborate more effectively and support each other. He consistently exceeds expectations and initiates activities that have contributed to a 100% retention rate in the eighth and newest cohort.”
Pinnacol’s apprenticeship program is a model for how businesses can develop and retain top talent while supporting pathways to adapt to a modern workforce. It’s nationally recognized as a leader in workforce development by the U.S. Department of Labor, The White House Office of Management and Budget and Harvard Business School. Established in 2017, the program addresses the skilled worker shortage in the insurance sector while offering a pathway for young people to prepare for meaningful careers. To date, Pinnacol has hired 16 apprentices, 86% of whom identify as people of color, for full-time positions.
Andy is the sixth Pinnacol apprentice to receive the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award, demonstrating the program’s ability to offer transformational opportunities to students while creating a pipeline of trained young talent.
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