National Apprenticeship Week recognizes the impact apprenticeship programs are making

The Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) is recognizing the impact apprenticeship programs are making in the lives of students this week by celebrating National Apprenticeship Week.The department operates 45 pre-apprenticeship programs that prepare high school students interested in transitioning to one of seven different registered apprenticeship programs across 15 different areas of coursework.“This week, we are proud to highlight apprenticeship opportunities in Tennessee, as they provide students with practical learning experiences and enable them to gain valuable skills in various industries, increasing their chances of future success in the workforce,” said Department of Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds.Tennessee high school students have access to apprenticeship programs in machining, welding, maintenance, culinary arts, mechatronics, and information technology.To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, Governor Bill Lee issued a proclamation, highlighting the vital role apprenticeships play in expanding workforce opportunities for Tennesseans.This week the department will spotlight innovative apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship opportunities on social media using the hashtags #NAW2023 and #ApprenticeshipTN.“National Apprenticeship Week raises awareness of the vital role that apprenticeships play in providing the people of Tennessee with the qualifications and competencies needed to create a strong and highly skilled workforce,” wrote Governor Lee in his proclamation.Registered apprenticeship programs combine paid coursework and on-the-job training from Tennessee employers to provide learning opportunities for students. Certified pre-apprenticeship programs can be paid or unpaid opportunities, but like apprenticeships, can be done in a school district’s work-based learning course.Students can learn more about apprenticeships on the department’s website.