A first-of-its-kind public relations apprenticeship program takes home a Golden Arrow award at Maine Public Relations Council’s annual conference and awards. WordLab, which was founded by Broadreach Public Relations’ President Linda Varrell, opened its doors last February as an innovative workforce solution, connecting young talent with small businesses and nonprofits looking for help in the field of public relations.
“Wow! It was such a nice surprise to hear that WordLab was awarded a Gold for their work with Capt’n Eli’s. The hard work and dedication of the apprentices over this short period of time certainly hasn’t gone unnoticed. We’re grateful to several community members and organizations that support this model and our work. I am sure this is the first of many Golden Arrows to come.” said Varrell.
WordLab was recognized with a Gold Golden Arrow Award in the Press Release category for its work with Capt’n Eli’s Craft Soda, announcing the soda’s transition to an all-natural formulation. Entries in the Golden Arrows were judged by an expert panel from the Oregon PRSA Chapter.
WordLab is an accredited apprenticeship program with the Maine Department of Labor where apprentices complete 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning and curriculum in the critical skills of the public relations and strategic communications industry. Apprentices learn press relations, project management, social media, copywriting, editing, and event planning, while working with small businesses and nonprofits. Initial clients and supporters since WordLab’s launch include Boston Financial Management, Cromwell Center, Shipyard, and Wireless Partners.
