In this week’s episode of Trending in Education, Ryan Craig, author of the new book Apprentice Nation: How the “Earn and Learn” Alternative to Higher Education Will Create a Stronger and Fairer America, joins host Mike Palmer to delve into how apprenticeships can help bridge the experience gap faced by young workers.
Craig argues that apprenticeships should be a mainstream option for high school graduates, not just limited to trade occupations. He believes that apprenticeships can provide valuable work experience and skills training in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and software development. This alternative approach offers a less risky option than traditional higher education with its heavy reliance on loans.
The conversation highlights the underutilization of apprenticeships in the US compared to countries like Switzerland and Germany. Craig advocates for increased government investment to support intermediaries that can establish and manage apprenticeship programs on a larger scale. Without this support, companies lack the motivation and resources to offer earn-and-learn opportunities. The discussion also touches on the skills gap and the growing “experience gap” faced by college graduates entering the workforce unprepared. Craig emphasizes the importance of real work experience for entry-level hires and how apprenticeships can help address this challenge.
For those interested in creating new opportunities for economic mobility and advancement for young Americans in the digital age, this episode provides a forward-thinking perspective. Craig presents his vision for an “Apprentice Nation” that could revolutionize education and workforce training.
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Episode References
Craig, R. (2023). Apprentice Nation: How the “Earn and Learn” Alternative to Higher Education Will Create a Stronger and Fairer America. BenBella Books.