Summary
A recent survey conducted by the Alaska Small Business Development Center highlights significant challenges facing small businesses in Alaska, particularly workforce shortages and inflation. The findings emphasize the need for a focused approach to workforce development, advocating for homegrown solutions such as apprenticeships and vocational training programs to build a skilled workforce within the state.
These challenges occur against a backdrop of persistent population decline in Alaska, which has seen more residents leave than arrive for over a decade. With 58% of businesses struggling to find qualified employees, the importance of registered apprenticeship programs, like those facilitated by WorkHands, becomes even more critical in creating viable career pathways for local talent and meeting the demands of various industries across the state.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This story underscores the urgent need for registered apprenticeship programs to address workforce shortages in Alaska. By fostering local talent through earn-and-learn models, these programs can help businesses thrive while providing Alaskans with valuable skills and career opportunities in their home state.
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