Last week I traveled to Chattanooga, Tennessee for National Apprenticeship Week (#NAW24), where I had the chance to connect with others in the apprenticeship space and see the momentum building around apprenticeship programs in the region.
Chattanooga is quickly becoming a key hub for apprenticeship opportunities, especially in high-demand fields like technology. With a growing network of local employers, schools, and workforce development organizations, the city is dedicated to expanding access to apprenticeship programs. As a former apprentice, it was rewarding to contribute to the conversation and share my own experience with others.
One of the highlights of the week was visiting two local high schools to speak with students about the value of apprenticeships. Many of the students had not considered apprenticeships as a career path, and most were thinking about joining the military, pursuing a trade, or exploring other options. While all these professions offer great opportunities, apprenticeships stand out by shaping careers and opening doors in high-growth fields like tech.
On day two, we celebrated Emily, a recent graduate of the apprenticeship program at Unum. Emily shared their story, reflecting on how the apprenticeship provided not only valuable skills but also a strong foundation for their career. Their success is a perfect example of what apprenticeships can offer, and it is exactly the kind of opportunity we hope to encourage more people to pursue.
By the end of the week, I felt like we had made a real impact, whether it was sparking interest in apprenticeships among students or motivating employers to consider starting their own programs. As more people learn about the benefits of apprenticeships, I am confident we will see even more programs launched, creating more opportunities for individuals to advance their careers.
A quote that resonated with me from the week: "Apprenticeships offer more than just 'livable wages' – they provide the potential for 'thriving wages,'" as highlighted by the Hamilton County School Superintendent.
Comments