April 28, 2026
RICHMOND, VA — Governor Abigail D. Spanberger has issued an official proclamation recognizing April 26 through May 2, 2026, as National Apprenticeship Week in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Governor’s proclamation reaffirms the Administration’s commitment to affordability by expanding Registered Apprenticeships as a strategy for increasing access to high-paying, family-sustaining wages and strengthening Virginia’s economic competitiveness.
Virginia’s apprenticeship programs currently support 2,226 active employer sponsors and 15,173 active apprentices across key sectors that drive the Commonwealth’s economic growth. In addition, Virginia’s apprenticeship growth continues with over 30 Registered Apprenticeship intermediaries – organizations that help translate industry needs and design and support specific programs to support those needs – up from just 4 in 2022, representing a 575% increase in strategic partnerships. Virginia sees a $3 return on every $1 invested by Virginia in our Registered Apprenticeship team, demonstrating the powerful economic impact of Registered Apprenticeship for employers, apprentices, and taxpayers alike. As the Governor’s proclamation notes, Registered Apprenticeship programs serve a broad range of Virginians, including students, veterans, justice-impacted individuals, and career changers, helping more people connect to opportunity, advancement, and economic mobility.
In conjunction with the Governor’s recognition, Virginia Works and its partners are participating in dozens of apprenticeship-focused events and celebrations statewide throughout the week. Activities include school-based outreach sessions, employer and intermediary events, and apprenticeship signing ceremonies that will formally launch new placements and connect Virginians with hands-on training opportunities in high-demand industries. Each event underscores the Commonwealth’s commitment to strengthening its skilled talent pipeline and expanding access to high-quality career pathways for workers across every region.
A highlighted event this week is the first-ever Virginia Veteran Registered Apprenticeship Muster on Wednesday, April 29, at Ft. Eustis Officer’s Club from 10:00-1:00. This one-of-a-kind event will connect Virginia’s transitioning veterans with Registered Apprenticeship program sponsors actively recruiting for skilled, high‑demand roles. Attendees will meet employers, explore apprenticeship pathways, and connect them with earn‑while‑you‑learn training and opportunities that support skill-development and long‑term career advancement.
“Apprenticeship is one of the most effective strategies we have for building a strong, future‑ready workforce,” said Virginia Secretary of Labor Jessica Looman. “By expanding earn‑while‑you‑learn pathways, Virginia is opening doors for workers, strengthening employer talent pipelines, and supporting the economic competitiveness of every region of our Commonwealth. National Apprenticeship Week highlights what is possible when state, local, and industry partners work together to create meaningful opportunities for all Virginians.”
“Registered Apprenticeship continues to be one of Virginia’s most powerful tools for developing talent and strengthening our workforce,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works. “From schools and employers to veterans’ organizations and community partners, Virginians are working together to create clear career pathways that meet business needs and connect people to life-changing opportunities.”
Virginia Works’ Registered Apprenticeship team provides local consultants who deliver hands-on, customized guidance to help businesses launch, expand, and maximize apprenticeship opportunities. To get started today, visit https://virginiaworks.gov/explore-registered-apprenticeship/.
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PDF of Press Release 