Gov. Mills Declares Proclamation of National Apprenticeship Week at Inaugural Maine Apprenticeship Summit

November 20, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 20, 2024

Gov. Mills Declares Proclamation of National Apprenticeship Week at Inaugural Maine Apprenticeship Summit

AUGUSTA - More than 200 business professionals from across the state gathered in Augusta Monday for the Inaugural Maine Apprenticeship Summit.

The summit kicked off with opening remarks and a proclamation recognizing Maine's role in National Apprenticeship Week by Governor Janet Mills.

"Apprenticeships are a win for our workers, our employers, and our economy providing on-the-job training that results in a stable workforce, good-paying jobs, and a stronger, more diverse economy," Governor Mills said. "With employers looking for workers across Maine, paid apprenticeship programs are a great opportunity to get more people especially younger people into new exciting fields that can provide a good paycheck."

Following those remarks, attendees picked from a variety of different breakout sessions to join. They included information for scaling existing apprenticeship programs, advice on how to implement a program for prospective businesses, and explaining labor laws.

"I couldnt think of a better way to celebrate [National Apprenticeship Week] than by gathering such a dynamic group of leaders, employers, educators, and advocates, all committed to advancing apprenticeship as a pathway to success," said Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. "As you all know, apprenticeship is a model with deep historical roots, dating back centuries. But here in Maine, we are modernizing and expanding this model to meet the needs of todays workforce."

The summit took place during National Apprenticeship Week, with regional and national speakers attending the event to share their perspectives. Attendees of the sold-out event included business, union, and workforce professionals.

About Maine Apprenticeship Program

The Maine Apprenticeship Program is a career development program that's fast, flexible and proven to yield the skilled workers Maine Needs. For more information, please visit https://www.apprenticeship.maine.gov .

Graphics for the Proclamation of National Apprenticeship Week (Word)