U.S. Department of Labor Blog
We are excited to celebrate the first Youth Apprenticeship Week (YAW)! From May 5 to 11, 2024, we are celebrating the incredible opportunities that Registered Apprenticeship programs offer to our young workforce.
Registered Apprenticeship stands as a pivotal strategy in addressing our nation's workforce demands across vital sectors like education, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, clean energy, cybersecurity, and other critical areas. This approach gains significance especially in light of the administration's landmark federal investments through acts like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act, which have spurred growth in high-needs sectors.
Moreover, Registered Apprenticeship can serve as a pathway accelerating young people (ages 16-24) into high-quality, financially rewarding jobs while also fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the workplace. Throughout the week, we will showcase the success and value of Youth Apprenticeship by focusing on a range of daily themes:
- Monday: “Parents and Guardians are a Priority” in Registered Apprenticeship
- Tuesday: Youth Apprenticeships: Building Awareness, Myth Busting, Partnering with Educational Providers, and Creating Pathways through Pre-Apprenticeship.
- Wednesday: Expanding Youth Apprenticeship Opportunities for Underserved Populations
- Thursday: National Youth Apprenticeship Signing Day
- Friday: Federal Partners Day and Call to Action
Why YAW Matters
Whether you are a student, educator, employer or simply passionate about shaping the future, YAW is your chance to join the movement. YAW is all about empowering our youth and young adults. Imagine being 16–24 years old and having the chance to earn family-sustaining wages while gaining hands-on experience in your chosen field. That’s what Registered Apprenticeship programs provide! These programs bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, setting youth and young adults on a trajectory toward meaningful careers.
Registered Apprenticeships are not just about learning a new skill or occupation; they are about building a sustainable pipeline of talent. As industries evolve, we need skilled workers who can adapt and thrive. YAW showcases how Registered Apprenticeships create a direct link between education and employment, ensuring that young workers are well-prepared for tomorrow’s jobs. Registered Apprenticeship programs allow young people to pursue a meaningful career with experienced professionals supporting them and may include opportunities to earn college credit while doing so. Offering practical training, mentorship and the chance to earn while learning, apprenticeships present a win-win scenario for youth and young adults and employers.
Join the Movement
Remember, YAW is not just a week—it is a movement. Join us in celebrating Youth Apprenticeship Week 2024! Let us empower our future workforce, celebrate their achievements and build a brighter future together!
Host a YAW Event: Organize an event in your community, school, or workplace.
Submit an Event and a Proclamation: Tell us about your YAW event or proclamation, and we will highlight it on our website.
Spread the Word: Use #YAW2024 and #ApprenticeshipUSA on social media. For more information, visit the official YAW page.
Manny Lamarre is a senior policy advisor in the department’s Employment and Training Administration.
