If you’ve been following the headlines, you know that economic inequality is on the rise. For instance, the wealthiest 1% of Americans hold nearly 35% of the nation’s wealth, a stark contrast to what most households experience. Meanwhile, income disparity is also on the rise, with the top 20% of U.S. households earning over half of the nation’s total income. Frustrating, right? So, how do we level the playing field and make sure everyone has a shot at high-paying, stable careers? How do we build a larger middle class? At WV Women Work (WVWW), we believe apprenticeships are part of the solution. They’re a classic yet powerful approach that’s bridging economic divides and changing lives.
Apprenticeships: The Hands-On Ticket to Opportunity
Apprenticeships aren’t just a job or a temporary gig. They’re a hands-on ticket to opportunity, especially for folks who may not have access to college pathways—or who don’t need one to succeed. Many employers tell us they’re willing to train anyone who shows up on time and is eager to learn. Apprenticeships take this a step further, offering structured skills, support, and sustainable incomes. They’re designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds to access fulfilling careers.
Breaking Down Barriers to Entry
For too long, some of the best-paying jobs seemed reserved for those with hefty tuition fees, extensive networks, or specific degrees. But here’s the truth: great careers shouldn’t be exclusive clubs. That’s where apprenticeships come in, knocking down barriers with a sledgehammer (sometimes literally—have you seen our construction pre-apprenticeships in action?). Apprenticeships open doors to industries like construction, manufacturing, and tech, where demand is high, and skills are queen.
Today, apprenticeships are thriving across the U.S., with over 593,000 active apprenticeships nationwide in 2021 alone. Employers increasingly recognize that apprenticeships diversify talent pipelines, offering hands-on experience without the debt of traditional education. Apprenticeships are accessible, no-cost or low-cost training that says, “Come one, come all!” No matter where you start, apprenticeships let you learn from skilled professionals, often while earning a paycheck—a rare, precious combo for those juggling family, finances, and aspirations.
The Financial Security Apprenticeships Offer
Let’s get real. The ultimate goal here is financial security, right? Apprenticeships allow individuals to ‘earn while they learn,’ a phrase we toss around a lot because it’s music to our ears. Instead of amassing debt and hoping for a job offer four years down the line, apprentices start with both a job and a trajectory. And it’s not just any job—these are jobs with longevity, mobility, and room for advancement.
An apprenticeship can be a bridge from economic hardship to stability, and even prosperity. Think about it: an apprentice in a skilled trade can earn as much or more than their peers with a four-year degree. And unlike traditional paths that often come with massive student debt, apprenticeships allow people to build their futures debt-free. That’s not just impactful for the apprentice—it lifts families, strengthens communities, and creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone.
Building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workforce
At WVWW, we’re all about equity. We know that creating access to opportunity is the first step, but we’re equally committed to building inclusive spaces where everyone, from every background, can thrive. Apprenticeships don’t just make room for diverse workers—they actively bring them in, offering not only technical skills but also mentorship and confidence-building. And the data backs this up. Between 2010 and 2019, more diverse groups have joined apprenticeship programs, with 15.3% identifying as Black, and a growing representation from American Indian, Asian, Native Hawaiian, and multi-racial communities. Apprenticeships are clearly opening doors to underrepresented groups, offering career paths that would otherwise be challenging to access.
By helping to diversify industries that are traditionally dominated by certain demographics, apprenticeships challenge stereotypes and enrich the workforce. They help create teams that are reflective of the real world, and that’s powerful. When people from different backgrounds collaborate, we don’t just see increased productivity; we see innovation, creativity, and stronger communities.
Benefits to Employers
Want proof that apprenticeships don’t just benefit workers but also the companies that invest in them? The stats don’t lie. According to a U.S. Department of Labor study, a whopping 99% of employers with apprenticeship programs reported at least one significant benefit. Improved company culture? Over 96% of employers cited that. Better talent pipelines? Over 90% saw enhanced recruitment. Increased employee loyalty? Another 90% checked that box, too. Apprenticeships help companies by creating a skilled, committed workforce that sticks around.
When companies invest in apprenticeships, they’re not just filling roles—they’re building a skilled, committed workforce that sticks around. The Illinois Department of Employment Security even found that apprenticeships boost productivity and reduce turnover costs. In other words, companies that create apprenticeships aren’t just investing in people—they’re investing in their own success.
Why We’re All In on Apprenticeships
At WV Women Work, we believe that the future is bright, but only if it’s inclusive. Apprenticeships are more than just an entry point—they’re a path to empowerment. They allow individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to step into industries they may not have previously considered. They provide stability, skills, and a sustainable income. And maybe, most importantly, they prove that a career in the trades isn’t just possible for everyone—it’s desirable, fulfilling, and within reach.
So here’s to the apprentices who are breaking down barriers, defying stereotypes, and taking charge of their economic futures. Together, we’re building a stronger, more equal West Virginia—and we’re just getting started.
Written by Carol Phillips, Executive Director, West Virginia Women Work
