April 23, 2025
National Apprenticeship Day is on April 30, 2025, a time to recognize the role apprentices play in Colorado's workforce. The Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) is proud to have had multiple apprentices on our team in recent years. In honor of Apprenticeship Day, we are showcasing a collection of successes and stories of these rising professionals.
According to Colorado’s Registered Apprenticeship Program data, this year we have almost 8,000 apprentices statewide, working in diverse industries ranging from building and construction trades to emerging fields like healthcare support, architecture, and engineering. These programs offer real-world learning experiences and paid opportunities for students and job seekers, providing a pathway to skilled trades and professions. Join us as we dive into the lived experiences of CWDC rising professionals and explore the benefits that apprenticeships bring to both individuals and businesses.
Read about the lived experiences of CWDC rising professionals
Read Zarin’s Story: CWDC Apprentice Zarin Moon, a new apprentice offering a fresh perspective on starting an apprenticeship and the opportunities it provides. She states, “I'm excited to continue my apprenticeship, expand my knowledge, and look forward to applying the skills I've gained to my future career. I encourage other students to consider apprenticeship programs as a way to gain valuable work experience and develop their skills.”
Read Kwizi’s Story: CWDC Apprentice Alumn, Kwizi Ndogole, shares her experience working at the CWDC as a project coordinator on the career pathways team. She states, "I didn’t know what I got myself into, but found myself excited to be starting a job, especially a hands-on learning experience while getting paid to work in an office and with the state."
Read Daisy’s Story: CWDC Apprentice Alumn, and Marketing Communications Coordinator Daisy Gutierrez, shares how her apprenticeship with the CWDC through CareerWise Colorado has created numerous opportunities and significantly shaped her professional development. She explains, Although I was uncertain about my future career path, ultimately, my apprenticeship played a crucial role in helping me clarify my aspirations."
Read the Blogs from a Business Perspective at the CWDC
Building Relationships: An Apprenticeship Story
What is an Apprentice and Why Do They Matter?
Apprenticeships offer a powerful pathway for individuals to gain real-world experience while contributing meaningfully to an organization. Explore the dynamics of a supervisor-apprentice relationship, including establishing trust, the role of feedback, and overcoming challenges. Understanding these elements builds the foundation of effective apprenticeships, leading to better outcomes for apprentices, organizations, and the industries they serve.
Creating Talent Pipelines For Colorado Businesses - What Having Apprentices Means to Me
Want to know how apprenticeships can help businesses find and grow talent? Career Pathways Consultant Thomas Hartman, PhD, shares how apprenticeships are creating talent pipelines for Colorado businesses and shares his experiences working with young adults in apprenticeship programs.
Gen Z Seeking Registered Apprenticeships, Careers in Skilled Trades
CWDC Stimulus Consultant Kim Flemming discusses how Gen Z is rising to meet the demand for essential occupations that sustain our state's growth and prosperity.