In today’s job market, it can be challenging to navigate the path to a successful career. Traditional educational routes are not always the best for everyone, and the need for hands-on experience remains important. This is why apprenticeship programs are essential by offering individuals an opportunity to learn, earn, and gain valuable work experience in high demand industries.
To kickoff November, a month of national celebration of apprenticeships and apprentices, WFSDallas hosted an Apprenticeship Accelerator event. The goal of an apprenticeship accelerator is to make industry, associations, employers, and stakeholders aware of all the opportunities that exist to help meet their industry’s hiring needs through a registered apprenticeship.
The event consisted of a panel of apprenticeship stakeholders including employers, apprentices, and resources to accelerate the further use and adoption of Registered Apprenticeship to meet business’ workforce needs.
Employers described the impact they’ve made in their community by helping bridge gaps between experience and education by combining classroom learning with on-the-job training. A belief in focusing on young adults and helping them advance their career was a focus among employers, as several young adults are not aware of the options available.
Apprentices are not supposed to have an out-of-pocket cost, meaning employers will pay for wages and the training program. Resources for employers are available to help offset these costs. These resources vary by state, some states like Texas offer tax credits to employers, while others offer free tuition, and other benefits.
According to https://www.apprenticeship.gov/, Apprenticeship return in investment is:
- $1.47 return to employers for every $1 spent on apprenticeship programs
- 94% of apprentices remain employed with their employer after completion
- $28 in benefits for every $1 invested by the gov’t, workforce system, and economic development
- The average starting salary after completion is 80k
- Apprentices earn more over their lifetime than their peers
Following the employers, a panel of 7 apprentices discussed their individual experiences. Each apprentice had their own story, some were first generation students, parents, and faced hardships. Being an apprentice shaped each of their lives and has led to decisions that have fostered career growth. Although each apprentice had their own unique story, they all shared a goal in common: to grow and thrive in their careers.
The 10th anniversary of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) will be celebrated November 17-23, 2024, with a series of events hosted by stakeholders and partners across the Dallas area. NAW is a nationwide celebration that brings together employers, industry leaders, labor organizations, community-based groups, workforce partners, educational institutions, and government agencies at the Federal, State, and Local levels. These events highlight the success and value of registered apprenticeship programs, showcasing how they play a role in developing a skilled workforce, fostering career opportunities, and driving economic growth.
WFS Dallas offers comprehensive guidance and support to help develop and implement apprenticeship programs tailored to meet business needs. Whether you are looking to create your own apprenticeship program or register one with the federal government, we are here to help you every step of the way.
For any questions email lhoffman@wfsdallas.com. For more information on the events hosted by stakeholders and partners in the Dallas area click here.
