August 21, 2025
RICHMOND, VA – On August 20, 2025, Virginia Works published a comprehensive economic analysis revealing the state’s Registered Apprenticeship program is delivering significant returns for Virginia’s economy and taxpayers. The program generated an estimated $6.8 million in additional federal, state, and local tax revenue in fiscal year 2023, representing a three-to-one return on investment.
According to the analysis conducted by Virginia Works Economist Timothy Aylor, registered apprenticeship participation has grown steadily over five years, increasing 30% since the first quarter of 2020. The analysis also compared apprentice wages to typical hiring wages for similar age groups, finding that program completers consistently earned more than they likely would have without the apprenticeship opportunity.
“This analysis validates that the Registered Apprenticeship program is not just training skilled workers in the Commonwealth – it’s expanding Virginia’s economy and generating tax revenues that exceed administrative costs,” said Commissioner Overley. “Every dollar we invest in this program returns that dollar plus three additional dollars in tax revenue.”
The fiscal year 2023 analysis of 2,203 program completers revealed substantial economic benefits including $17.1 million in total labor income impact and $34.7 million in value-added economic activity (GDP contribution).
“The positive economic impact stems from two primary factors: apprentices typically earn higher wages than they would have otherwise, and the industries sponsoring apprenticeships often feature high value-added production with extensive supply chains,” states Timothy Aylor.
Free copies of the complete report, including information on the industries where the impact is greatest, can be downloaded here under Reports/Presentations: https://virginiaworks.gov/newsroom/
Virginia Works’ Registered Apprenticeship program connects individuals with employers to provide structured, on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction. The program has demonstrated consistent growth and positive economic impact since its inception and is rapidly expanding into new industries and occupations in finance, human resources, IT, education, and healthcare. For more information on the value of Registered Apprenticeship or on Virginia Works and the full range of workforce services we offer, please visit: www.virginiaworks.gov
###
PDF of Press Release 
