November 10, 2025
RICHMOND, VA – Virginia Works today released its 2024-2025 Apprenticeship Council Annual Report, showcasing unprecedented growth in the Commonwealth’s Registered Apprenticeship (RA) program and reinforcing Virginia’s position as a national leader in workforce development.
The report reveals that Virginia now supports over 15,000 active apprentices, representing a 42% increase since 2022. This milestone reflects the Commonwealth’s strategic commitment to expanding earn-while-you-learn opportunities across diverse industries.
“This has been a transformative year for Virginia’s apprenticeship system,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works and Secretary of the Virginia Apprenticeship Council. “The numbers demonstrate that strategic investment, policy innovation, and collaborative partnerships can deliver real results for apprentices, employers, and communities across the Commonwealth.”
Key Highlights:
- 212 new programs added – ranking Virginia first among State Apprenticeship Agencies
- First in the nation for total number of registered programs and sponsors
- $6.8 million in additional tax revenue generated in fiscal year 2023, representing a 3-to-1 return on investment
- 27 intermediaries, up from four in 2022 (a 575% increase)
- $6 million federal grant awarded for teacher and principal apprenticeships in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education
The report also details significant policy advancements, including new frameworks for pre-apprenticeship programs, credit for prior experience, and interstate reciprocity agreements, positioning Virginia’s apprenticeship system for sustainable, quality-focused growth.
Virginia Works’ innovative Apprenticeship Accelerator and the federally supported HIRED Fund continue to provide employers with resources and financial incentives to launch and expand apprenticeship programs in high-demand industries.
The 2024-2025 Apprenticeship Council Annual Report is available online at www.virginiaworks.gov/newsroom.
For more information about Virginia Works and our full range of programs and workforce services, please visit virginiaworks.gov.
###
PDF of Press Release 
