WHEREAS, Apprenticeship Week is celebrating its 10th anniversary of raising awareness of the vital role that Registered Apprenticeships play in providing opportunities to Alaskans by allowing apprentices to earn while they learn and preparing a pathway to quality jobs and well-paying careers and the ability to advance in those careers; and

WHEREAS, the progress and well-being of Alaska depends on its ability to expand opportunities in its workforce that are inclusive of individuals who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality in their chosen fields; and

WHEREAS, apprenticeship programs enable employers to train their future workforce while offering career seekers affordable paths to secure high-paying jobs; and

WHEREAS, these programs uniquely meet the changing demands of Alaska’s economy and provide a path for all qualified individuals, including women, youth, people of color, residents of rural communities, justice-involved individuals, and individuals with disabilities, to become apprentices and contribute to Alaska’s industries; and

WHEREAS, Alaska recognizes that Registered Apprenticeship, a proven and industry-driven training model, is a key strategy to improving job quality and creating access to high-paying, family-sustaining jobs for all while addressing workforce challenges such as rebuilding infrastructure, confronting critical supply chain demands, supporting a clean energy workforce, modernizing our cybersecurity response, and responding to care economy issues.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim November 17 – 23, 2024 as:

Alaska Apprenticeship Week

in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to seek out information regarding the many benefits of apprenticeships and celebrate the positive impacts these programs have on our infrastructure and economy.

Dated: November 17, 2024