Wisconsin's Apprenticeship Programs Reach Record Highs

Strategic Insights -

In a welcome development for the state, participation in Wisconsin's registered and youth apprenticeship programs has soared to record high levels in 2024 and 2025, amidst industry reports of qualified worker shortages. This increase is attributed to system-wide efforts to boost participation and introduce new apprenticeship pathways, including construction, a traditionally in-demand field. However, opportunities remain to expand apprenticeship programs in fast-growing occupations, strengthen links between youth and registered apprenticeship pathways, and increase pre-apprenticeship programs for adults interested in skilled trades careers. A recent Wisconsin Policy Forum report examined the landscape around registered apprenticeships, certified pre-apprenticeships, and youth apprenticeships, with a focus on three programs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Registration for apprenticeship programs in Wisconsin reached record highs in 2024 and 2025, totaling 17,509 active apprentices, with two-thirds pursuing construction industry careers.
  • The top occupations among Wisconsin's apprentices in 2024 were construction electricians, plumbers, and operating engineers.
  • Registered apprenticeship programs have been introduced for several health care occupations, including medical assistants and registered nurses, pioneered by UW Health in Dane County.
  • The share of apprentices who are Hispanic doubled in the last decade, to 8.1% in 2024, highlighting progress in diversifying the apprenticeship pool.
  • Despite progress, Wisconsin's apprenticeship programs still underrepresent Black and female workers.
  • To pursue a registered apprenticeship, individuals must choose a trade, meet qualifications, and identify potential employers or union sponsors, highlighting the importance of pre-apprenticeship training programs.
  • WRTP | BIG STEP offers pre-apprenticeship programs in Milwaukee, Madison, and Racine, with participants commuting from 32 counties, primarily in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.
  • The Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program offers high school students one or two years of work-based learning, with participation more than doubling since 2019, to 11,357 in 2025.

Statistics:

  • 17,509 active apprentices in Wisconsin as of 2024, with two-thirds pursuing construction industry careers.
  • The top occupations among Wisconsin's apprentices in 2024 were construction electricians, plumbers, and operating engineers.
  • 8.1% of apprentices in 2024 were Hispanic, a doubling from the previous decade.
  • 2,029 individuals participated in state-certified pre-apprenticeship programs in 2023 and 2024, with most participating in Milwaukee or Dane counties.
  • 32 counties participated in WRTP | BIG STEP's largest pre-apprenticeship program in 2024.
  • 11,357 high school students participated in the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program in 2025, more than double the 2019 participation level.

Sources:

  • Wisconsin Policy Forum report
  • WRTP | BIG STEP
  • Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship Program
  • Wisconsin Policy Forum website (wispolicyforum.org)
  • BridgeTower Media (2025)