Mayor Adams Celebrates NYC‘s 15,000+ Apprenticeship Milestone
New York City is proving its commitment to economic mobility with aformerly ambitious goal now becoming reality: over 15,000 new apprenticeship opportunities for residents. Mayor Eric Adams announced this impressive achievement, placing the city well ahead of schedule in its goal of creating 30,000 apprenticeships by 2030.
"Our mission is to make New York City a safer, more affordable city, and through expanding job opportunities, we are doing just that," stated Adams. "These apprenticeships offer on-the-job training with employment opportunities in high-demand careers, and they create a pipeline of talent for employers who are investing in our communities."
This initiative, called the Apprenticeship Accelerator program, was initially unveiled during Adams’ 2023 State of the City address. The program aims to diversify the apprenticeship landscape, moving beyond the traditional construction and skilled trades industries.
“Our announcement of 15,000 apprenticeships by the end of 2024 is a powerful demonstration of the city’s commitment to building on ramps to economic mobility and ensure that employers can tap the talent they need to thrive,” said Abby Jo Sigal, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development.
This is evident in the remarkable growth observed in non-construction apprenticeship programs. Since the program’s inception, these programs have seen a 62% increase! Opportunities in fields like healthcare, technology, and public service are now more accessible than ever.
To further bolster the program, the city has launched the “Apprenticeship Community of Practice.” This innovative platform facilitates collaboration among stakeholders, enabling them to shape the future of apprenticeships, share best practices, and overcome challenges together.
The city has invested heavily in this program, pouring $1.8 million into diversifying new apprenticeship programs. With a total investment of over $15 million from both public and private sources, the Apprenticeship Accelerator demonstrates the city’s unwavering commitment to empowering its residents.
First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer echoes this sentiment, saying “This administration has made good on its promise to increase apprenticeship opportunities, and this milestone is a testament to the hard work of our public- and private-sector employers. “The range of apprenticeship opportunities ensures that New Yorkers of all backgrounds can access meaningful employment opportunities that tap into their diverse experiences and interests.”
This dedication to building a more inclusive and vibrant workforce indicates a bright future for New York City, offering promising pathways to careers and economic stability for its residents.
## Traversing the Ladder: A Q&A with Mayor Adams on NYC’s Apprenticeship Success
**New York City recently celebrated a critically important milestone: over 15,000 active apprenticeships across all five boroughs. World Today News sat down with Mayor Eric Adams to discuss the city’s apprenticeship initiative, its impact, and its future. **
**WTN**: Mayor Adams, congratulations on reaching this extraordinary milestone]! 15,000 apprenticeships is a magnificent achievement. Can you shed some light on the driving force behind this initiative?
**Mayor Adams**: Thank you. This is truly a victory for new York City. Our apprenticeship program is built on the essential belief that everyone deserves the chance to build a thriving career, regardless of thier background. We’re facing a skills gap in our workforce, and apprenticeships offer a fantastic solution. They provide hands-on training, real-world experience, and a pathway to good-paying jobs, all while strengthening our industries and economy.
**WTN**: What types of industries are benefiting most from this program?
**Mayor Adams**: We’re seeing success across a wide range of sectors. Healthcare, technology, construction, hospitality – these are just a few examples. It’s about meeting the needs of our growing economy and equipping New Yorkers with the in-demand skills employers are looking for.
**WTN**: How does the city ensure the apprenticeships offered are high-quality and truly benefit both participants and employers?
**Mayor Adams**: Quality is paramount. We have rigorous standards for apprenticeship programs, ensuring they offer structured training, mentorship, and competitive wages. We also work closely with businesses and industry leaders to understand their needs and create programs that are relevant and impactful.
**WTN**: Beyond individual career advancement,what broader impact do you foresee these apprenticeships having on the city as a whole?
**Mayor Adams**: This is about building a more equitable and inclusive New York City. Apprenticeships provide pathways to the middle class for individuals from all walks of life, closing the opportunity gap and strengthening our communities. Moreover, a skilled workforce makes our city more competitive on the global stage.
**WTN**: What’s next for the apprenticeship initiative? Are there plans to expand the program further?
**Mayor Adams**: We’re just getting started! Over the next year,we aim to grow the program substantially,working with even more businesses and reaching out to underrepresented communities. Our goal is to make apprenticeship the gold standard for workforce growth here in New York City.
**WTN**: what message do you have for young people who might be considering an apprenticeship?
**Mayor Adams**: I say go for it! Take that leap and invest in your future. Apprenticeships offer a real opportunity to learn a trade, build valuable skills, and earn a living while doing so. It’s a pathway to success, and I encourage everyone to explore the possibilities.
