November 17, 2021

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Vincennes University and the Associated Builders and Contractors will celebrate the U.S. Department of Labor's seventh annual National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) with an event at ABC Indianapolis, 5001 Shadeland Avenue, on Saturday, Nov. 20.

The U.S. Department of Labor established NAW to celebrate the significant impact registered apprenticeship programs have had in rebuilding our economy, advancing racial and gender equity, and supporting underserved communities. Hundreds of NAW events and activities will be taking place all over the country, including the Associated Builders and Contractors Chapter Craft Championship.

"Registered apprenticeship is a proven way for Hoosiers to obtain pathways to secure, high-paying careers in construction trades," Vincennes University Vice President of Workforce Development and Community Services David Tucker said. "We are proud to support National Apprenticeship Week and to showcase the impact apprenticeships have on building the workforce in this country through the ABC Craft Championships." 

The ABC Chapter Craft Championship (CCC) highlights the achievements of the men and women who represent the construction industry's future. Craft apprentices demonstrate their superior skills, training, and safe work practices and compete for top honors in their chosen craft. Each competition consists of a written exam, completed before the practical, based on craft curricula developed by the National Center for Construction Education Research (NCCER) and accounts for 25% of the total score. On the day of the Championship, competitors are tested on their skills during a six-hour project. This practical performance test accounts for 75% of the total score. All of the first-place winners will advance to the National Craft Championship Competition (NCC) to compete against ABC Apprentices from across the country for the title of the National Craft Champion. For the training sponsors, employers, and ABC chapters, the NCC demonstrates a staunch commitment to the construction industry's career paths.

Photo taken prior to COVID-19 mask policy

About National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is a nationwide celebration that offers established by the U.S. Department of Labor to bring together leading business, labor, education, apprentices, and other critical partners to showcase the impact Registered Apprenticeship programs have on building the American workforce, as well as highlight the successes and value of Registered Apprenticeship for rebuilding our economy, advancing racial and gender equity and supporting underserved communities. Registered Apprenticeships provide the opportunity to assist and propel individuals who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality by allowing apprentices to earn. At the same time, they learn a pathway to well-paying careers. NAW will enable employers to showcase their programs, facilities, and apprentices so that career seekers can learn more about the benefits of Registered Apprenticeship and the available programs in their communities. In addition, during NAW events, apprentices have a platform to share their apprenticeship experience and how it has transformed their lives. For more information, visit apprenticeship.gov/NAW.

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