Bill > SJR26

This resolution celebrates May 7, 2025, as Skilled Trades Day in Wisconsin, recognizing the critical importance of the construction industry and skilled trades workers. The resolution highlights several key points about the skilled trades landscape, including the industry's significant size and the high demand for workers, with more than one in four construction workers over 55 years old. It emphasizes Wisconsin's pioneering role in apprenticeship programs, noting that the state has the nation's oldest registered apprenticeship program (established in 1912) and was the first to create a Youth Apprenticeship program in 1991. The state has made substantial investments to support apprenticeships, including providing incentives, grants, and reforms like allowing EdVest accounts for apprenticeship costs and enabling high school students to participate in registered adult apprenticeships. These efforts have yielded impressive results, with Wisconsin achieving an all-time high of over 17,000 apprentices in the previous year and 9,932 youth apprentices enrolled during the 2023-24 school year. The resolution aims to raise awareness about the skilled trades workers who contribute to building essential infrastructure and facilities where people live, work, play, worship, learn, and heal.

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/joint_resolution/sjr26