SMART Local 55 in Boise is proud to recognize the first group of apprentices receiving a new childcare stipend designed to support working families as they begin their careers in the sheet metal trade. The initiative is part of a three-year pilot program aimed at helping first-year apprentices balance the demands of training, work, and family responsibilities.

Through the program, eligible first year apprentices with children age 12 and under receive a $400 monthly childcare stipend. The benefit is administered through the third-party childcare platform TOOTRiS, which helps connect families with trusted childcare providers while ensuring the stipend is distributed efficiently. By easing the financial burden of childcare during the critical first year of apprenticeship, the program helps apprentices stay focused on developing their skills and building a strong foundation in the trade.

The goal of the pilot program is not only to support current apprentices but also to expand opportunities for future recruits. Childcare costs can be a major barrier for many individuals who would otherwise pursue a career in the skilled trades. By offering this support, SMART Local 55 hopes to open the door for more parents and caregivers to enter the industry and successfully complete their apprenticeship.

SMART Local 55 remains committed to strengthening the workforce and creating pathways for individuals and families to thrive. Programs like this childcare stipend pilot demonstrate the union’s dedication to supporting apprentices both on and off the job as they work toward becoming the next generation of highly skilled sheet metal professionals.