Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Nov. 13-19, 2023, as Registered Apprenticeship Week in South Dakota. This week celebrates the important role registered apprenticeships play in helping South Dakotans gain critical skills while also expanding the state’s workforce.
“Apprenticeships provide opportunities for people to learn valuable on-the-job training for those workers who are looking to pick up a skill,” said Governor Noem. “I believe that the state that has the workers to fill available jobs will be the state that wins the economic race. New and growing apprenticeship programs will ensure that South Dakota continues to have the best economy in the nation.”
Governor Noem announced $7.9 million in additional funding for apprenticeships in April. Since then, 162 businesses have inquired about building Registered Apprenticeship Programs. South Dakota has added 330 apprentices and seven new programs covering eight new occupations. Currently, another 25 new programs are in development.
A celebration event will be held in Pierre on Wednesday, Nov. 8, to recognize the impact and importance of employers and sponsors who offer apprenticeship programs and apprentices who have completed an apprenticeship within the last 12 months.
“A panel will share their positive experiences, and I invite the business community to join us to learn how an apprenticeship can assist with workforce training needs,” said state Labor and Regulation Secretary Marcia Hultman. “A graduation ceremony for apprentices who have completed their programs will also be held, along with an announcement of this year’s Outstanding Apprentice, Mentor, and Sponsor Awards.”
The apprenticeship training model combines work-based learning with classroom instruction based on industry needs and standards. Many businesses have developed registered apprenticeship programs to train employees and keep South Dakotans in their home communities.
To learn more about the celebration event, how to become an apprentice or business sponsor, or to find student opportunities, visit StartTodaySD.com.
