Finds that it is in the public interest of the state to encourage and facilitate the formation of cooperative relationships between business and industry and educational institutions that provide for the development and expansion of programs of skills training and education consistent with employment needs and to make interested individuals aware of the employment opportunities presented. Therefore, the following programs shall be implemented to expand opportunities for secondary school students to prepare for technical careers and related apprenticeships: (1) Centers of excellence, which shall act as repositories and distributors of relevant information;

(2) A coordinated educational outreach program about apprenticeships; and

(3) Direct-entry programs for graduating secondary students into construction-related apprenticeships, managed by the Washington state apprenticeship and training council.

Provides that centers of excellence, as designated by the state board for community and technical colleges, and other colleges with a high density of apprenticeship programs, shall act as a broker of information and resources on available grants, scholarship opportunities, job openings, and industries of growth.