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Discover how Apprenticeships are Making an Impact for Apprentices, Employers and Intermediaries. This brief highlights how, in an economy marked by rapid technological change and shifting workforce demands, apprenticeships are proving to be one of the most effective ways to connect people with promising careers—and connect employers with the skilled talent they need. At the heart of this transformation are stories of personal growth, professional development, and innovative partnerships.

This brief complements the Making an Impact video of the same title. 

Apprenticeships programs are a proven strategy to develop a talent pipeline for a skilled workforce. Apprenticeships can also help employers mitigate workforce shortages and provide workers with paid work experience, classroom instruction, progressive wage increases, and a nationally recognized credential. In 2021, the United States Department of Labor reported that overall apprenticeship completion rates were below 35%.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) launched the American Apprenticeship Initiative (AAI) in October 2015 to expand registered apprenticeship into high-growth occupations and industries and to increase apprenticeship opportunities for all Americans. Apprenticeship is a structured, work-based training program that combines classroom instruction (“related technical instruction,” or RTI) with on-the-job learning (OJL) provided by a mentor at the employer’s worksite.