More than 500 North Carolina high school students completed summer pre-apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship academies this year, Governor Josh Stein's office reported on October 1.
The programs introduced students to electrical trades, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, biotechnology and health care. Some included college coursework, industry credentials and hands-on learning with employers.
Separately, the state's NC Career Launch initiative had supported 1,067 students who completed youth apprenticeships since 2024, across 48 counties and more than 165 employer partners, according to the release.
The figures describe training completions, not guaranteed jobs. The governor's office said the academies are intended to help students explore careers while building practical skills.
