Youth perspectives on the future of apprenticeships

Amid tight labor markets and growing skepticism about traditional college pathways, youth apprenticeships are emerging as a powerful solution that bridges education, employment, and innovation. While these programs are expanding into new industries and regions, key questions remain about their structure, equity, and scalability, and how success is measured. Who better to answer these critical questions than the young people themselves? Youth apprentices offer unique insights into what makes these programs transformative—from gaining real world skills and professional networks to accessing debt-free pathways to higher education—as well as candid perspectives on areas for improvement.

On Monday, November 18, Brookings Metro and CityWorks DC held an event during National Apprenticeship Week 2024 that elevated youth voices in the national conversation about expanding apprenticeships. The event featured a fireside chat where former youth apprentice Frankie Mansaray interviewed Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) about congressional efforts to grow these opportunities, an engaging panel discussion followed with apprentices from the Washington, D.C. area. Building on research insights from Brookings Metro Fellow Annelies Goger about scaling earn-and-learn programs at the state level, this event positions young people as both beneficiaries and architects of apprenticeship innovation—offering policymakers, educators, and employers essential guidance for building more inclusive and effective pathways to economic mobility.

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