Governor Gavin Newsom today declared April 30, 2025, as “Apprenticeship Day,” highlighting the importance of apprenticeships in career development. Governor Newsom stated, “National Apprenticeship Day is a nationwide celebration recognizing apprenticeships as a vital career pathway that is key to the prosperity and vitality of our state.”
The governor emphasized California’s leadership in expanding apprenticeship opportunities. “We are proud to be a national leader in growing the number and type of apprenticeships, enabling more Californians to pursue rewarding careers while strengthening our economy,” he said.
The focus on apprenticeships aligns with California’s Master Plan for Career Education, which emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world skills. This plan operates alongside the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint to address the workforce’s needs based on sectors, regions, and individual skills.
The state has made significant strides, supporting over 91,493 active registered apprentices. The Administration is also promoting programs like the Apprenticeship Innovation Funding, which dedicates $52 million to expanding apprenticeship initiatives.
The California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship Grant program is allocating an additional $16 million to introduce young people to pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities. Another effort, the Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship Grant, aims to diversify the workforce in the construction industry.
Governor Newsom reiterated the importance of apprenticeships, stating, “Apprentices offer an impactful alternative to traditional education paths that benefit employers as well as workers by filling skill gaps in critical areas and helping businesses grow.”
He concluded by declaring “April 30, 2025, as ‘Apprenticeship Day,'” in recognition of the role apprentices play in building California’s economy.
The proclamation was endorsed by Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D.
