National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is an annual event that recognizes and promotes the importance of apprenticeships across a range of industries. This year, this significant week takes place Nov. 17-23, marking its 10-year anniversary. This milestone celebration is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Labor with various organizations participating, including the American Welding Society (AWS)—an association that recognizes the essential role apprenticeships play in preparing a skilled workforce.
AWS has issued a proclamation in honor of the 10th anniversary of NAW, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about registered apprenticeships. “National Apprenticeship Week is an opportunity for us to invest in the future of our industry,” said AWS President Michael Krupnicki. “Through registered apprenticeships, we can address the skills gap and create rewarding, lucrative career paths through hands-on, paid training in welding, inspection and automation.”
These programs offer the dual benefits of practical training while allowing participants to earn a living, making them an attractive option for many individuals seeking careers and skilled trades. The involvement of organizations like AWS highlights the urgent need for skilled professionals in the welding industry and beyond.
To support employers in launching or enhancing apprenticeship programs the AWS Foundation has developed a resource hub providing guidance on structuring registered apprenticeship programs for welders, welding inspectors and automation technicians.
Participating in NAW provides companies the opportunity to engage with potential apprentices, fostering a new generation of skilled workers who can contribute to their fields. Hands-on experiences and the chance to mentor young talents not only help in skill transfer but also ensure that the industry retains knowledge and expertise that might otherwise be lost as existing workers retire.
The week is a platform for advocacy, allowing engineers and businesses to advocate for policies and programs that support apprenticeship opportunities across various sectors. By promoting apprenticeships, workforce shortages and the increasing demand for skilled labor amidst evolving technology and industry standards can be met head on.
Editor’s Note: Machine Design’s WISE (Workers in Science and Engineering) hub compiles our coverage of workplace issues affecting the engineering field, in addition to contributions from equity seeking groups and subject matter experts within various subdisciplines.
