Apprenticeship Week

1. Are templates available to sign a NAW Proclamation?
   
   
   Yes! The U.S. Department of Labor created a Proclamation Template that is simple to use. Download the editable Proclamation Template​ and input the required fields, then send your Proclamation to Kimberly.Heinisch@siu.edu.
   
   
   
2. How do I submit a NAW Proclamation?
   
   
   Please email Proclamations to Kimberly Heinisch, Illinois workNet and Apprenticeship Illinois team member, at Kimberly.Heinisch​@siu.edu​.
   

   
   
3. What counts as an event?
   
   
   Events and activities vary, including:

   • Webinars, Livestreams
   • Open Houses, Tours
   • Signings: Proclamations, Apprentices
   • Roundtables, Conferences, Expos
   • Apprenticeship Graduations
   • Skills Competitions
   • Community Forums, Town Halls
   • Information Sessions, Orientations
   • Publish Blogs, Articles, Webpages, etc.
   • Career Fairs, Virtual Job Fairs, College Fairs
   • News or Radio Interviews, Commercials, Billboards
   • Social Media Campaigns, X (Twitter) Storms, Podcasts

   
   
4. What does "NAW" mean?
   
   
   National Apprenticeship Week, also known as "NAW," is an annual, weeklong celebration that highlights the importance of apprenticeships in the workforce and community.
   

   
   
5. What is this year's theme?
   
   
   The U.S. Department of Labor's theme for NAW 2026 is "America at Work: Making America Skilled Again through Registered Apprenticeship."

   
   
6. When is National Apprenticeship Week?
   
   
   This year's National Apprenticeship Week takes place April 26-May 2, 2026.
   
   
   Save the date for future NAWs:
   • ​April 25-May 1, 2027
     
   • April 23-April 29, 2028​

   
   
7. Who can I contact with questions about submitting an event and proclamation?
   
   
   Please email Apprenticeship@IllinoisworkNet.com​ if you have questions or need assistance submitting an event or proclamation to Illinois.
   
   
   
8. Who should I contact for information on creating an apprenticeship program at my company?
   
   
   A local Apprenticeship Specialist can assist employers at every step, from learning the benefits to submitting registration forms. Apprenticeship Specialists are a one-stop concierge service that builds a Registered Apprenticeship program from start to finish at no cost. Find your County on the Employers page to contact the Apprenticeship Specialist in your area.
   

   
   
9. Who should participate in celebrating Apprenticeship Week?
   
   
   NAW is for all! This includes business, labor leaders, career seekers, students, parents, educational institutions, grantees, partners, state/government, community organizations, municipals, and anyone curious about apprenticeships.

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