Last week’s National Apprenticeship Week gave employers, apprentices, graduates, industry representatives, labor organizations, community organizations, educational institutions — even government agencies — a chance to highlight the importance of training programs that help develop a skilled workforce. The demand for such well-trained and skilled workers is only growing.

Now, as the attention of many students and families in our region turns to high school graduation — and what comes next — it is important to use that knowledge to inform the decision-making process. Each student has their own path to success. For some, it is pursuing a four-year degree (maybe more). But for others, the best next step after high school graduation might be entry into an apprenticeship or other training/certification program. Given the excellent career and technical education available in our local high schools, some of those students may already be well on their way.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship USA program helps applicants “jump start your career through apprenticeship,” with a portal toward registered apprenticeships that often allow trainees to earn a wage as they are learning.

Examples of industries in which registered apprenticeships are available include: advanced manufacturing, agriculture, energy, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, public service, technology, telecommunications, transportation, and other fields.

According to Apprenticeship USA, 94% of apprentices who complete a registered apprenticeship retain employment, with an average annual salary of $84,000. Those are important things to consider when weighing the pros and cons of various post-secondary educational opportunities.

Life after high school graduation isn’t one-size-fits-all. When planning for what comes next, explore as much as you can — and consider ALL the options.