Applauding Apprenticeships: National Apprenticeship Week 2021
Apprentices are the unsung heroes of workforce development, dedicating themselves to mastering trades that build nations. During the seventh annual National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), from November 15th to 21st, the U.S. Department of Labor, along with various sectors, celebrated the vital role of apprenticeships. This year, the focus was on showcasing how these programs prepare a skilled, diverse workforce to propel the nation’s economy forward.
Hawaii’s Commitment to Apprenticeships
In Hawaii, apprentices are integral to sectors like construction and infrastructure, contributing significantly to the local economy. HCATF Executive Director Edmund Aczon emphasized the dual benefit of apprenticeships, offering individuals the chance to “build the world around them” while securing a stable income and advancing their skills. “Our mission is to broaden access to well-paying jobs and establish a pathway to success for everyone,” Aczon remarked.
Virtual Celebrations and Industry Insights
HCATF participated in NAW 2021 with a virtual event hosted by Hawaii’s Workforce Development Division, drawing participants from across the state to discuss industry innovation and partnership opportunities. The week spotlighted carpentry, drywall, and millwright trades, with a focus on how these skills are essential for addressing workforce challenges and supporting Hawaii’s clean energy goals.
Instructor and Facility Highlights
Long-time instructor Harold Calventas provided a glimpse into the life of a drywall apprentice, stressing the importance of mastering fundamentals to expertly care for families and communities. Additionally, training coordinators April Acquavella and Darrell Seto led a live tour of the new training center in Kapolei, a state-of-the-art facility crucial for providing advanced technology and tools for all HCATF programs, particularly for millwright training.
Community Impact and Nationwide Recognition
HCATF’s impact resonates beyond training. From high school students engaging in the Career Connections Summer Internship Program to individuals transitioning careers through the Carpentry Pre-Apprenticeship Program, HCATF ensures accessibility to rewarding construction careers. The broader impact includes supporting underserved communities, advancing racial equity, and bridging the gender gap in trades, highlighted by the inaugural National Women in Apprenticeship Day on November 18th, celebrated with a special message from Vice President Kamala Harris.
The Takeaway
As we reflect on NAW 2021, it’s clear that apprenticeships are more than just training programs; they are investments in our future. By fostering sustainable development, promoting equity, and nurturing local talent, HCATF and similar organizations are essential in shaping a skilled, diverse workforce ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges. They are not just building structures but are also crafting a resilient, inclusive community one apprentice at a time.
Where to Watch
- Watch the HCATF presentation – courtesy of the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations Workforce Development Division – online at: https://tinyurl.com/HCATF-NAW-21
- Watch Vice President Kamala Harris’s message online at: https://tinyurl.com/harris-naw-21
