The U.S. Department of Labor issued a press release and accompanying blog post to announce the launch of the Apprentice Trailblazer Initiative, which is intended to create a national network of apprentices and apprenticeship graduates whose stories may inspire others interested in becoming apprentices. The initiative will also provide a platform for apprentices to share their diverse stories and experiences and show how registered apprenticeships increase opportunities for underserved populations.

The first cohort of Apprentice Trailblazers will focus on youth ages 16-24 and recent youth apprenticeship graduates. Youth apprentices and graduates interested in becoming Apprentice Trailblazers are encouraged to discuss it with their Registered Apprenticeship sponsors and submit an application here by Sept. 30. The Department plans to announce the first cohort of youth Apprentice Trailblazers during 2023’s National Apprenticeship Week, which is Nov. 13-19.