National Apprenticeship Week

my529 recognizes National Apprenticeship Week from November 14-20, 2022, which highlights the value of educational and occupational opportunities available through apprenticeships. Apprentices can gain on-the-job career experience, receive classroom instruction and obtain a professional credential in a variety of industries.

People who complete apprenticeships can command competitive starting salaries, have an increased earning potential during their years of employment and have a high likelihood of employment retention, according to apprenticeship.gov, the federal apprenticeship website.

Apprenticeships span a range of professions, from typical trades like electricians, construction workers and welders, to information technology careers like software engineers, cybersecurity analysts and even videogame designers. Check out potential apprenticeships at apprenticeship.gov and apprenticareers.org.

Did you know registered apprenticeships count as a qualified 529 expense?

That means my529 funds can be used to cover costs that accompany a registered apprenticeship, including the fees, books, supplies and equipment required to participate. To qualify, the apprenticeship must be registered and certified with the Secretary of Labor under Section 1 of the National Apprenticeship Act.

Explore my529’s apprenticeship page. There, you’ll find national and Utah-specific apprenticeship resources.

Utah residents, mark your calendars for November 15. To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, the state of Utah is hosting an Apprenticeship Summit from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for employers, educators and community partners. Alongside this event, the state is holding an Apprenticeship Job Fair for job seekers, career changers, students, parents and secondary educators, as well as community partners who want to learn more from those who hire apprentices. Both events will be held at Weber State University-Davis Campus in Layton. Pre-registration is not required for the job fair, which runs from 3 to 7 p.m. To learn more, visit apprentice.utah.gov or email apprenticeship@utah.gov.