The Wisconsin Policy Forum’s new apprenticeship study affirms what our member unions have known for generations. Construction and manufacturing trades continue to anchor the state’s workforce pipeline, producing the highest participation levels, the strongest completion rates, and the best career outcomes of any apprenticeship pathways in Wisconsin. The report’s findings clearly show that the construction trades remain the gold standard for effective workforce development.
Study Highlights:
- Construction Trades Are Clear Leaders In Apprenticeship Participation
- Construction trades account for approximately 75% of new apprentices in 2024.
- Building Trades Professions Are Leading The State In Solving Workforce Challenges
- Construction trades outperform regional averages in the number of apprentices recruited relative to the expected roles.
The findings also reinforce earlier research from the Midwest Economic Policy Institute (MEPI), which found that typical union apprenticeship graduates earn higher wages than both bachelor’s and master’s degree holders in Wisconsin. Additionally, the same MEPI study also found that not all apprenticeship programs are created equal, with union programs training the vast majority of Wisconsin’s skilled trades workforce (3 out of every 4 apprentices).
“Union apprenticeships work in Wisconsin because they are rooted in strong partnerships between labor organizations and employers who are committed to quality training, safe work sites, and lifelong careers,” said Emily Pritzkow, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Building Trades Council. “We are proud that the data once again confirms what we see every day. When workers have access to proven training models, they earn family-sustaining wages, employers get the skilled professionals they need, and communities across Wisconsin benefit.”
For interview requests or additional comment, please contact Michael Horecki (mhorecki@wisconsinbuildingtrades.org) at the Wisconsin Building Trades Council.
