National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is a nationwide celebration of the power and impact of Registered Apprenticeship programs in building a safe and skilled workforce. Coordinated by the U.S. Department of Labor, NAW brings together employers, apprentices, labor organizations, educators, and workforce partners to highlight how apprenticeship connects jobseekers to in-demand construction careers while meeting the evolving needs of industry.
The inaugural Spring National Apprenticeship Week, April 26 – May 2, 2026, showcases the critical role apprenticeship plays in preparing workers for the jobs of today and tomorrow—especially as industries continue to grow and innovate.
Themes for the week include:
- Monday, April 27: Registered Apprenticeships Building America at 250
- Tuesday, April 28: Registered Apprenticeship Drives Growth and Innovation Across Critical Industries
- Wednesday, April 29: Expanding AI in Registered Apprenticeship
- Thursday, April 30: Realigning Education and Workforce Systems Around Registered Apprenticeship
- Friday, May 1: Youth Pathways to Registered Apprenticeship
For the union construction industry, NAW is an important opportunity to showcase the immense value of registered apprenticeship and the wide range of career paths available in the building trades. Apprentices earn while they learn—gaining hands-on experience, classroom instruction, and mentorship from skilled journeyworkers. With programs varying by trade, each apprenticeship offers a direct path to a stable, rewarding career while upholding the highest standards of safety and craftsmanship.
As National Apprenticeship Week continues to grow, it remains a vital platform for connecting people to opportunity, strengthening industries, and investing in the future of our workforce.
Find out more information about apprenticeship through our website and within the videos below.
