Published November 14, 2022

The week of November 14th marks the 8th annual observance of National Apprenticeship Week. The week highlights national recognition of the ways in which apprenticeships provide paid on-the-job learning experiences for students while creating a pipeline of well trained workers for a wide variety of employers. 

The U.S. Department of Labor describes the week as “a nationwide celebration where industry, labor, equity, workforce, education, and government leaders host events to showcase the successes and value of Registered Apprenticeship for re-building our economy, advancing racial and gender equity, and supporting underserved communities.” In addition, the Labor Department notes the value of apprenticeships in addressing such key national challenges as improving  infrastructure, developing clean energy, solving supply chain problems and ensuring effective cybersecurity.

When First Lady Jill Biden and three Cabinet secretaries visited Rolling Meadows High School this week for a close look at District 214’s advanced career-connected learning, U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh reinforced the foundational District 214 belief that partnerships between schools and employers - including apprenticeships - help companies recruit and retain talent while strengthening the local economy.

Now in its fourth year, District 214’s Youth Apprenticeship program is growing; our 28 seniors in apprenticeships is an increase of eight from just a year ago. Here are three videos that look at some of these apprenticeships, including: