Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Scott Baumbach says the state has been a leader in apprenticeships dating back to 1911. That’s when the state passed a law which was the first-of-its kind in regulating the journeyman trade.

“Wisconsin’s law became a model for other states and the federal government for developing their own systems,” he said a speech at the 25th Biennial Apprenticeship Conference and Centennial Celebration in Madison.

Baumbach said apprenticeships play an important role in advancing Governor Scott Walker’s plan for 250,000 private sector jobs by 2015.

Wisconsin currently has about 8,000 registered apprentices training and working in some 200 occupations statewide. Approximately 2,000 registered apprenticeship programs are currently in place in the state.

Governor Walker has declared June 12-18 Apprenticeship Week in Wisconsin.

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