WHEREAS, since 2015 National Apprenticeship Week is an annual, nationwide celebration recognizing the value of Registered Apprenticeships in developing a highly skilled and competitive workforce; and

WHEREAS, supporting growth in Registered Apprenticeship reinforces this Administration's commitment to affordability by increasing access to high paying jobs throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Registered Apprenticeships offer earn‑while‑you‑learn career pathways that equip workers with in‑demand skills while meeting the evolving talent needs of employers; and

WHEREAS, Virginia’s apprenticeship system serves a broad range of Virginians—including students, transitioning military members, veterans, military spouses, returning citizens, and career changers—helping more people connect to opportunity, advancement, and economic mobility; and

WHEREAS, employers who participate in Registered Apprenticeships benefit from increased employee retention, productivity, and industry‑recognized training; and

WHEREAS, partnerships among state agencies, educational institutions, workforce boards, employers, and labor organizations play a vital role in sustaining and expanding apprenticeship opportunities across the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Virginia’s apprenticeship programs currently support 2,226 active sponsors and 15,173 active apprentices across key sectors that drive the Commonwealth’s economic growth; and

WHEREAS, National Apprenticeship Week is an opportunity to reaffirm that when Virginia invests in workers’ skills, wages, safety, and advancement, we strengthen families, grow businesses, and build a more prosperous Commonwealth for all;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize April 26 - May 2, 2026, as NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.