Episode: 230

Episode Title: Apprenticeships Are Cool And Here’s Why

Apprenticeships have a lot to offer younger workers and the companies that hire them. So why aren’t they better known? Stay tuned for more, coming up next on The Perna Syndicate.

Ep 230 show:

Welcome—you’re now in The Perna Syndicate! On yesterday’s show, we talked about the long-term commitment that Gen-Z wants to make at their first job. More than half want to stay at their first job for three years or longer—which is great news for companies worried about turnover. 

With that kind of long-term commitment in mind, it makes sense that young employees are looking for opportunities to gain new skills while at work. On-the-job training is more than a perk these days; it’s a must-have for young professionals.

CEO Casey Welch, whom I’ve quoted all week, says that there’s a skills training method drastically underutilized by employers—and it’s apprenticeship. Not only do apprenticeships deliver on-the-job training, they also bridge the skills gap and build employee loyalty.

In many industries, the skills gap starts with an awareness gap. People just don’t know about the careers that are available or how to attain them. While Tallo research showed that some 63% of Gen-Zers would be interested in an apprenticeship program, more than half said they’re not familiar with what apprenticeships actually entail.

It’s time for companies and workers to see that apprenticeships are cool again. In fact, they never stopped being cool. Experiencing hands-on training, doing actual work, becoming highly proficient in what you do—sounds like apprenticeships are a win-win for employees and employers alike. 

Thanks for being part of The Perna Syndicate this week. This show is all about shifting the paradigm in education and workforce development—and it starts with you. I’m your host, Mark Perna, and we’ll see you back here next week.