Contact:
Rose Lynch, (608) 266-6753
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards, and the Wisconsin Apprenticeship Advisory Council will sponsor the 22nd Biennial Apprenticeship Conference at the Radisson Paper Valley in Appleton on Monday, January 31, 2005, and Tuesday, February 1, 2005.
Governor Jim Doyle is scheduled to address the Conference on Monday, January 31, 2005 at approximately 3:30 p.m.
The conference is to benefit employers who hire apprentices; employer associations; labor unions and organizations; non-union organizations; other state agencies; licensees; educators; and, high school students.
The theme of this year’s conference is “Wisconsin Apprenticeship—Growing and Building the Future.” The agenda provides an opportunity for apprenticeship partners to explore innovative ways to bring apprenticeship programs into the 21st century. From newly developed apprenticeships in health care occupations to traditional skilled trade apprenticeships, the registered apprenticeship model is a viable workforce development tool for investing in new high-growth industries.
Today’s registered apprenticeships provide flexibility and an opportunity for apprentices to earn while they learn. Today’s apprenticeships offer career and academic pathways that those of yesterday did not provide. This year’s two-day conference offers over 30 workshops on subjects ranging from the application of apprenticeship training in a changing economy, to the application of Wisconsin’s Open Meetings law in apprenticeship.
In conjunction with the Conference, an Apprentice Expo will showcase apprentices demonstrating their skills. Students from area schools will have an opportunity to interact with apprentices in various trades and occupations by attending the Apprentice Expo. The public is also invited to attend the Apprentice Expo, which is being held from 9:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Monday, January 31, 2005.
On-site registration is available at the Conference for those who wish to attend.
