Summary
Virginia has launched a new Youth Registered Apprenticeship Program, allowing students aged 16 to 21 to gain trade skills through a combination of on-the-job training and technical instruction. Local business owner Josh Weeks has registered his automotive repair facility, Wicked Diesel, to participate in the program, providing mentorship and job opportunities to apprentices while fostering a pathway to long-term careers in skilled trades.
This initiative addresses the pressing skills gap in the trades, particularly as many workers are nearing retirement. By encouraging young individuals to pursue apprenticeships instead of solely focusing on traditional college pathways, Virginia aims to cultivate a new generation of skilled tradespeople, ensuring a sustainable workforce for the future.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This new program highlights the importance of registered apprenticeships as a viable career path for youth, promoting earn-and-learn opportunities that build essential skills in high-demand fields. It also underscores the critical need for businesses to invest in the next generation of workers to maintain a robust, skilled labor force.
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