Apprenticeships nationwide have seen incredible growth. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, we’ve seen a 64% increase in new apprentices since 2012, with more than 2 million new apprentices. This growth has been consistent over the last decade. The U.S. Department of Labor’s data also shows that there were 22% more active apprentices from 2011-2021 than the previous 10-year average.
If this growth continues, our industry will be able to fill the vacant positions needed to meet our nation’s growing demand. As we mentioned above, apprenticeship programs are a part of many industries, but they are especially beneficial to the construction industry. Our skilled tradespeople learn on the job, alongside seasoned professionals while earning a paycheck. After completing a program, apprentices are prepared for a range of careers, including some of the most in-demand and highest paying. As of 2021, the top 3 occupations with active apprentices were: Electrician (71,812 apprentices), Carpenter (29,800 apprentices) and Plumber (21,971 apprentices).
We often talk about apprenticeship opportunities for young people. Apprenticeships are a great option for high school students and recent graduates. After all, they set young people up for future success faster than other career training routes, without a mountain of school debt. But people in every life stage can earn as they learn a new trade. Apprenticeships allow people to pivot on their career paths and discover their passions.
This year, National Apprenticeship Week’s daily themes remind us that apprenticeships are valuable for all people, no matter who they are or where they come from. The 2023 Daily Themes are as follows:
- Monday, November 13: Registered Apprenticeship for Youth
- Tuesday, November 14: Registered Apprenticeship in New and Emerging Industries
- Wednesday, November 15: Expanding Registered Apprenticeship to Underserved Populations
- Thursday, November 16: Women in Registered Apprenticeship
- Friday, November 17: Registered Apprenticeship for Veterans and Federal Employees
How can you observe National Apprenticeship Week alongside all of us at I Build America – Ohio?
- Visit the National Apprenticeship Week website to stay informed on all updates.
- Research relevant information surrounding the daily themes to ensure equal apprenticeship opportunities for all.
- If you are an employer, take this week to establish or improve your existing apprenticeship program. If you aren’t already employing apprentices, you could be missing out on eager-to-learn individuals that can become long-term employees. If you’d like additional support, complete the form on our employers page.
- If you are just starting out on your career path or are ready for a career change, use this week to learn about the options available to you, many of which might be in your own backyard. Click here to find an opportunity in your region.
- If you are an educator, share the apprenticeship option with your students. Too often, students are pigeonholed into the four-year college plan. Learn how apprenticeships may be better for some of your students here.
