The American Staffing Association celebrates the start of National Apprenticeship Week.

“Apprenticeships are a commonsense, cost-effective way for job seekers to learn the skills they need to fill the most in-demand jobs in the labor market,” said Richard Wahlquist, chief executive officer at ASA. “Apprenticeships provide job seekers with unique opportunities to earn while they learn skills that can lead to good-paying careers.

“Every year, staffing firms around the country connect job seekers with unique apprenticeship opportunities in sectors all across the labor market.

“Our country continues to face a skills gap crisis. Right now, there are 1.5 job openings for every unemployed person in this country. If our nation wants to successfully train the workforces of today and tomorrow, it is imperative that we expand access to apprenticeships.”