Dive Brief:

• Many people (62%) think apprenticeships and other on-the-job training programs make job seekers more employable than a college education, according to an American Staffing Association survey of more than 2,000 respondents. The ASA's Workforce Monitor survey found that 68% of respondents said learning a trade would help someone land a job more than pursuing a bachelor's degree, and 69% believe that a college degree isn't as valuable as it once was. 
• The survey also reported that 71% of those polled do not think completing an apprenticeship would limit someone's future employment options. A majority (60%) disagreed with the notion that earn-while-learning programs generally lead to lower salaries than jobs requiring a college degree.
• Nine out of 10 respondents said apprenticeships can lead to new careers, prepare people for a job, and allow them to learn an interesting trade. 

Dive Insight:

Apprenticeships in a variety of industries are reportedly on the rise, which may have been prompted in part by the U.S. Department of Labor's push for such programs. Just 27 occupations in the U.S. make regular use of apprenticeships, according to a recent study. Though apprenticeships were once adopted for training young people for trades, they have expanded into white-collar fields, as well.

As employers move to close the skills gap in this tight labor market, they may need to consider reevaluating their candidate criteria. Some have been placing more value on candidates' skills rather than their degrees and certifications, preparing those without the required experience for the job through apprenticeships and training programs.

Career and technical education initiatives, such as career pathway programs, apprenticeships and internships, haven't been very successful if students don't learn from industry experts or apply what they’re learning in a real work environment. With the Trump administration announcing earlier this year a new $3 million grant program focusing on apprenticeship programs in STEM fields, states have even more incentive to form strong partnerships that help high school students find apprenticeship opportunities.

Colleges and universities have the opportunity to boost apprenticeship programs, not only in the skilled trades, but also professional degree programs in STEM, business and other fields. While businesses say they are want graduates with critical thinking and other soft skills, they place high value on practical work experience.