Western Governors acquires platform for enabling apprenticeships

Western Governors University said Wednesday that it had acquired Craft Education, a technology platform designed to integrate work-based experiences with educational programs. WGU said the acquisition would propel the use of apprenticeship-based degree programs.

Craft Education was developed by the founders of Reach University, which has focused on helping education paraprofessionals become teachers through apprenticeships in the classroom. Craft’s technology platform helps colleges and employers track and report data related to on-the-job training aligned with academic programs.

“We are seeking to build the best work-based learning pathways in the country, modeling for other higher education institutions how to connect learning and work at scale,” said Courtney Hills McBeth, chief academic officer and provost at Western Governors. “Our investment will turbocharge this initiative and extend our innovative approach to linking students to careers and improving student outcomes.”