(1) The legislature finds that it is in the public interest of the state to encourage and facilitate the formation of cooperative relationships between business and labor and educational institutions that provide for the development and expansion of programs of educational skills training consistent with employment needs.

(2) Further, the legislature finds that it is in the state's interest to make students aware of the educational training programs and career employment opportunities.

(3) Therefore, the following shall be implemented to expand opportunities for secondary school students to prepare for technical careers and related apprenticeships:

(a) Centers of excellence and other colleges with a high density of apprenticeship programs shall act as brokers of relevant information and resources as provided for in RCW 49.04.170;

(b) An educational outreach program coordinated by the Washington state apprenticeship and training council as provided for in RCW 49.04.180; and

(c) The development of direct-entry programs for graduating secondary students, approved and overseen by the Washington state apprenticeship and training council as provided for in RCW 49.04.190.

Effective date—2006 c 161: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect April 1, 2006." [ 2006 c 161 s 7.]