Wisconsin’s Apprenticeship Program Hits New Enrollment Peaks
Wisconsin’s venerable registered apprenticeship program continues to break participation records, marking its fourth consecutive year of growth. Over 18,000 individuals engaged in apprenticeships in 2025, collaborating with more than 3,000 employers as reported by the state Department of Workforce Development.
Governor Tony Evers highlighted this achievement during his State of the State address, noting, “We’ve had the highest ever enrollment in our registered apprenticeship programs ever in state’s history for several years in a row.”
The program’s enrollment numbers have seen a steady climb from 15,000 participants in 2022 to 16,384 in 2023, 17,089 in 2024, and ultimately 18,524 in 2025. Such growth underscores the increasing reliance of businesses on the program as a vital tool for workforce development.
Recognizing the evolving needs of the job market, the program introduced five new apprenticeships in areas such as bus and motor coach mechanics, dental assistants, paramedics, and surgical technologists last year.
DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek expressed pride in the program’s expansion, stating it is a “proven solution that supports local talent to address the state’s worker quantity challenge.” She further emphasized the role of apprenticeship programs in meeting employment needs and shaping the future economy.
Currently, the state offers over 200 apprenticeship positions spanning various industries. David Polk, director of DWD’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards, credited the program’s success in part to strong industry partnerships and stated, “Through the engagement of our Wisconsin Apprenticeship Advisory Council and employer, education, and training partners, our apprenticeship programs continue to fuel economic momentum.”
The demand for youth apprenticeship is also on the rise, with more than 99 percent of Wisconsin’s public high schools offering such programs. The DWD reported a 14 percent increase in youth apprenticeship enrollment, with 11,344 high school juniors and seniors participating in the 2024-25 school year.
