Apprenticeship Funding Supports Workforce Growth at My Father’s Mustache

A local small business is investing in its workforce with the support of apprenticeship funding, as My Father’s Mustache continues to grow its team and develop talent in the Upper Cumberland.

Known in Cookeville for its unique experience and strong community presence, My Father’s Mustache is using apprenticeship funding to provide structured, hands-on training opportunities for employees. These programs allow participants to build practical skills while earning a wage, creating a pathway for long-term success in the hospitality and food service industry.

Apprenticeship programs are designed to combine on-the-job training with guided instruction, helping employees gain experience. For small businesses, this model provides a way to invest in staff development while maintaining day-to-day operations.

Support for these programs is made possible through regional workforce initiatives led by Workforce Connections, which helps connect employers to funding opportunities and training resources. By reducing the financial burden of training, Workforce Connections enables businesses of all sizes to participate in apprenticeship programs and build stronger teams.

For the Upper Cumberland, investments like this highlight the growing role of apprenticeship beyond traditional industries. While often associated with manufacturing or healthcare, apprenticeship programs are increasingly being used in hospitality and service sectors to create career pathways and improve employee retention.

As local businesses like My Father’s Mustache continue to invest in their workforce, these partnerships are helping strengthen the region’s economy by creating opportunities for individuals to gain skills, advance their careers, and remain in their communities.