Summary
A new apprenticeship program called the WakeWorks Youth Apprenticeship Academy will be launched in Wake County, North Carolina, allowing high school juniors and seniors to gain hands-on experience in skilled trades while earning college credit and a stipend. Funded by a $4 million grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies, the program aims to address workforce shortages in the skilled trades sector and will begin with a cohort of 60 students in January 2027.
This initiative highlights the increasing focus on apprenticeships as a viable pathway for students to transition into meaningful careers. With a projection of significant job growth in the construction and skilled trades sectors in North Carolina, programs like this can play a crucial role in preparing a skilled workforce to meet future demands.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This program represents a significant investment in youth apprenticeship opportunities, providing students with practical experience and financial support while still in high school. By connecting education with real-world applications in high-demand fields, it enhances career readiness and addresses workforce shortages.
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