(NOVEMBER 04, 2016) — The Wyoming Contractors Association, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, announced today Governor Matt Mead will sign a proclamation formally designating the week of November 2-8, 2015 as “National Apprenticeship Week.” The ceremony will take place on Friday, November 6 at 8:30am in the Governor’s Office in the State Capitol Building in Cheyenne.
Apprenticeship programs have been utilized by Wyoming businesses since the late 1930s. Today, 80 companies offer registered apprenticeship programs to over 371 active apprentices. The industries served are diverse, ranging from construction to electrical, engineering, and plumbing, to name a few. While the majority of apprenticeship programs are located in Casper and Cheyenne, opportunities are available in a number of Wyoming communities. The benefits of apprenticeships to businesses include diversification of their workforce, improved productivity, standardized training, and reduced turnover. In addition, the average starting wage for those completing apprenticeships is more than $50,000.
“The demand for skilled workers in all trades, including construction, continues to grow by leaps and bounds in our state,” said Katie Legerski, Executive Director of the Wyoming Contractors Association. “Apprenticeships, which allow people to learn new skills while they work, are a critical part of ensuring Wyoming can continue to compete effectively in the national and global economy,” she continued. “Governor Mead clearly understands the need to provide skilled training opportunities to residents of our state, which translates directly into a strong, diverse economy. The Wyoming Contractors Association supports the Governor’s efforts and those of the U.S. Department of Labor to highlight the continued need for apprenticeship programs by designating the week of November 2-8 as “National Apprenticeship Week,” said Legerski.