Michigan Works! Association Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week
LANSING (Nov. 18, 2024) - In recognition of the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week, which takes place from Nov. 17–23, the Michigan Works! Association is proud to highlight the critical role that apprenticeships play in building Michigan’s workforce of tomorrow.
As a champion of workforce development, the Michigan Works! network continues to lead the charge in promoting apprenticeships as a proven pathway to career success, equipping job seekers with valuable skills and hands-on experience.
This year, the Association is proud to unveil a new Apprenticeship section of its website, available at: www.michiganworks.org/apprenticeships
Moving forward, the group will continue populating the page with Race to Talent event information, linking to all of the Race to Talent events taking place across the MW! system. Additionally, there are other resources on the page, such as the apprenticeship dashboard, info on National Apprenticeship Week, and much more.
National Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide celebration that showcases the positive impact of apprenticeship programs on job seekers, employers, and the economy. Michigan Works! plays an integral role in expanding these opportunities, helping job seekers of all ages connect with apprenticeship programs in a range of high-demand industries, from advanced manufacturing and healthcare to construction and information technology.
“Apprenticeships offer a powerful way to learn while earning, giving participants both the skills and the income they need to succeed in today’s job market,” said Ryan Hundt, Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “We’re committed to working with local employers, educational institutions, and community partners to expand access to apprenticeships and ensure that Michigan remains competitive in a global economy.”
In 2023, Michigan Works! helped more than 6,800 individuals enroll in registered apprenticeship programs, providing them with valuable, on-the-job training that leads to high-quality careers. During that same time period, around 2,500 apprenticeships were completed. By partnering with hundreds of employers statewide, Michigan Works! ensures that apprenticeship opportunities are available across a variety of industries.
Apprenticeship Programs: A Win-Win for Job Seekers and Employers
For job seekers, apprenticeships provide a direct path to a stable career without the financial burden of traditional education routes. For employers, apprenticeships are an opportunity to cultivate skilled workers from within, helping to address workforce shortages and build a talent pipeline that can adapt to industry changes.
“As industries continue to evolve, apprenticeship programs are more important than ever in closing the skills gap,” said Hundt. “The hands-on training and mentorship offered through these programs create a well-rounded workforce, ready to meet the challenges of the future.”
Get Involved
Michigan Works! invites employers, job seekers, and community members to participate in National Apprenticeship Week by attending local events, workshops, and apprenticeship showcases hosted across the state. These events will provide opportunities to learn more about the benefits of apprenticeships, connect with program sponsors, and explore career pathways in various sectors.
For more information on apprenticeship opportunities and how to get involved in National Apprenticeship Week events, visit www.michiganworks.org or contact your nearest Michigan Works! Agency.
Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's talent development system. For more information, visit www.michiganworks.org, or call (517) 371-1100.
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