What To Know About National Apprenticeship Week
The Department of Labor is gearing up for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week from November 14-20, 2022. This national celebration highlights the importance of trade jobs and the opportunities available to workers across the country to build skills through apprenticeship programs. This year, we want to emphasize the options available to those seeking career changes or advancements and how you can now get involved in the apprenticeship program.
Apprenticeships are an alternative learning structure that is regaining popularity in the transforming economy. For those who are facing racial, gender, economic, or social barriers to their education, apprenticeships provide access to education that can build lasting and fulfilling careers in a variety of industries. Apprenticeships also help build economic strength for the country, as worker shortages affect an increasing number of industries.
During this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, the U.S. Department of Labor will highlight the following themes for both career seekers and employers:
Monday, Nov. 14: Registered Apprenticeship in New and Emerging Industries
Tuesday, Nov. 15: Pre-Apprenticeship and Youth Apprenticeship
Wednesday, Nov. 16: Expanding Registered Apprenticeship to Underserved Populations
Thursday, Nov. 17: Women in Apprenticeship
Friday, Nov. 18: Public Service Apprenticeship and Veterans in Apprenticeship
Reasons To Become an Apprentice
Unlike a college or trade school education, apprenticeships offer a hands-on learning opportunity for those looking to advance their career skills quickly. Apprenticeships offer a variety of benefits that can help motivate both young and experienced professionals to continue their education through different apprenticeship programs for their industry:
Earn while you learn
Some apprenticeship programs are paid, while others provide educational credits at no cost, helping learners save money while learning.
Receive industry-recognized credentials
Apprenticeships earn you a license, certificate, or another credential that can be used to advance yourself nationally throughout your chosen industry.
Start your career early
Most apprenticeships require only a high school diploma or GED, and some don’t require either to start. This provides equal opportunity for those with the skills and willingness to work to achieve higher education.
Degree Options
Some apprenticeships can help you earn academic credit for degree programs, allowing you to test out of certain classes or earn college credit while you work.
Mentorship
Connecting with mentors lets you learn firsthand from successful individuals in your field. The time spent with your mentor will provide you with the most significant lessons learned early in your career.
Industries that Offer Apprenticeships
Today, various fields offer apprenticeship programs as an alternative to a traditional college or vocational school programs. Many of these are considered trade jobs, with high earning potential and the option to create your alternative career path. Some examples of careers you can pursue through apprenticeships include:
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Construction workers
- HVAC technicians
- Masons
- Welders
- Chefs
- Tattoo artists
- Animal trainers
- Cosmetologists
- Hairdressers
Contact us today (or browse through our Jobs & Training section) if you are interested in finding apprenticeships and other workforce opportunities in your area. We can help match you with programs in your area that can help you fill skills gaps and pursue a more engaging and fulfilling career.