WHEREAS, National Apprenticeship Week increases awareness and access to registered apprenticeship programs which create opportunities by allowing apprentices to earn while they learn and provide a pathway to family-sustaining careers in Philadelphia and across the nation; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia recognizes the role of registered apprenticeships in expanding career and economic opportunities for our growing workforce, opportunities that are inclusive of individuals who have been historically underserved and adversely affected by persistent inequality. Thus, apprenticeships provide a path for all qualified individuals, including women, individuals with disabilities, youth, people of color, and justice involved individuals to contribute and grow America’s industries; and
WHEREAS, The Philadelphia National Apprenticeship Week Host Committee is a partnership between the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, labor unions, non-profit organizations, construction companies, and elected officials. Together, the committee has introduced registered apprenticeship programs to students and educated them not only on careers but also on the benefits of unionizing a workplace and having a union job; and
WHEREAS, Workers in unions make a tangible difference the public feels every day. Workers in labor unions make 18% more in wages than non-union counterparts. Union members work in safer workplaces and have more job security, especially in moments of economic crisis; and
WHEREAS, The Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO would like to formally recognize an express gratitude to the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Local 3. Through Union Experience Fairs they have worked together to increase awareness and access to family sustaining union careers to K - 12 students; and
WHEREAS, Educators play a critical role in the lives of their students by guiding them to career paths that are not only beneficial to their students, but also the student’s families and communities. Career and technical education educators hold industry-recognized credentials, certifications, and pass on practical and professional skills to their students further building Philadelphia’s future; and
WHEREAS, The Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO would like to formally recognize the Philadelphia Building Trades Council, Senator Nikil Saval, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Local 3, and all the members of 2026 Philadelphia National Apprenticeship Week Host Committee; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes April 26 through May 2, 2026, as National Apprenticeship Week.
FURTHER RESOLVED, Engrossed copies of this Resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, the Philadelphia Building Trades Council, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, and Pennsylvania State Senator Nikil Saval, further evidencing the sincere respect of this legislative body.
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