Last week marked the nation’s first-ever Apprenticeship Week, and U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy acknowledged the occasion by encouraging Connecticut businesses to embrace apprenticeship programs.

“When workers are trained to meet the needs of growing industries like manufacturing, health care, and technology, Connecticut thrives,” said Murphy. “Apprenticeships connect local businesses to the workers they need and help local workers land well-paying jobs and stable careers. They’re a smart way to grow our middle class and set our businesses up to succeed. Connecticut companies, like EDAC Technologies in Cheshire, are already offering apprenticeships and have seen increased revenues, higher sales and less employee turnover because of it.”

Murphy also noted that apprentices earn an average starting salary of more than $50,000 and are expected to an average of $300,000 more than non-apprentices will during the course of their careers.

“For more than 78 years, apprenticeship has been an integral part of the national employment and training scene and locally it has helped to build Connecticut’s economy,” said state Labor Commissioner Sharon M. Palmer. “Workers, employers and teachers rely on this program to help train and prepare people for high-skilled careers that benefit our workforce and economy.”

Financial assistance and funding are available to eligible companies that apply for a Registered Apprentice Program.

Employers interested in establishing an apprenticeship program should visit the state Department of Labor online at ctdol.state.ct.us.