Twenty-two local education agencies (LEAs) across Utah have been awarded approximately $99 million in state legislative funding through the Applied Professional Education Experiences (APEX) Grant Program to create and expand profession-based learning centers that connect classroom instruction with real-world workforce experiences.
The APEX Grant Program, established through H.B. 447, provides funding for innovative learning centers that replicate authentic workplace environments and align educational opportunities with Utah’s high-demand, high-skill industries. The program is designed to help students explore career pathways, earn industry-recognized credentials, and gain hands-on experiences that prepare them for postsecondary education and workforce success.
“The APEX Grant Program helps students see a clear connection between what they learn in school and the opportunities available to them after graduation,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Molly Hart. “By supporting innovative learning environments and strong industry partnerships, we are helping students gain valuable skills while strengthening Utah’s future workforce.”
This year, USBE received 25 grant applications requesting more than $160 million in funding, demonstrating strong statewide demand for profession-based learning opportunities. Applications underwent a robust review process, with each proposal evaluated by three independent reviewers. The review committee included representatives from Talent Ready Utah, the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE), the Department of Workforce Services (DWS), the State Workforce Development Board (SWDB), and the Utah State Board of Education (USBE).
The APEX Grant Program prioritizes projects that demonstrate strong industry and community partnerships, alignment with labor market needs and workforce data, innovative and sustainable delivery models, and measurable student outcomes, including workforce readiness, credential attainment, and workforce alignment.
USBE awarded Planning Grants to:
- Aspen Peaks School District
- Excelsior Academy
- Jordan School District
- Lake Mountain School District
- Maria Montessori Academy
- North Sanpete School District
- Tooele County School District
- Utah Connections Academy
- Utah Military Academy
USBE awarded Implementation Grants to:
- Beehive Science & Technology Academy
- Freedom Preparatory Academy
- Garfield School District
- Morgan School District
- Northern Utah Academy for Math, Engineering, and ScienceÂ
- Providence Hall
- Provo School District
- Salt Lake City School District
- South Sanpete School District
- Syracuse Arts Academy
- Uintah School District
- Walden School
- Washington School District
The funded projects will support learning experiences across a broad range of industry sectors, including advanced manufacturing and engineering, aerospace and defense technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, health science, construction, aviation, business and finance, digital media, education, information technology systems, life sciences, public service occupations, welding, and other fields essential to Utah’s growing economy.
By creating and expanding profession-based learning centers, participating LEAs will provide students with opportunities to engage in hands-on, career-connected learning experiences that mirror professional workplaces and help prepare them for success after high school.
For more information about the APEX Grant Program, visit www.schools.utah.gov/apexgrant.
