2. News Room

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David Polk Elected Executive Board President of NASTAD

Selected to lead efforts to advance apprenticeship across the United States

By Michele Carter, Division of Employment and Training Administrator

MADISON – David Polk, Director of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards (BAS), has been named the new Executive Board President of the National Association of State and Territorial Apprenticeship Directors (NASTAD). In this role, Polk will lead efforts to advance apprenticeship programs nationwide, collaborating with apprenticeship directors from 33 states and territories to strengthen workforce training and development.

NASTAD is a federally authorized association representing state apprenticeship agencies, with a mission to expand registered apprenticeship opportunities through advocacy, training, and the exchange of best practices. Together, NASTAD members oversee more than 70% of the registered apprenticeship programs in the United States and work closely with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship (USDOL/OA).

Polk’s appointment is a reflection of his long-standing dedication to workforce development through apprenticeship. Under his leadership, Wisconsin’s Registered Apprenticeship (RA) program has achieved significant growth, with a record 16,926 apprentices participating in 2023. Apprenticeship programs continue to provide a vital talent pipeline for Wisconsin employers, helping with recruitment, retention, and creating clear pathways to long-term careers for workers.

"Wisconsin has a rich history in apprenticeship, having established the nation’s first apprenticeship law in 1911," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "David’s leadership in this national role will ensure that our state’s innovative approaches to apprenticeship continue to shape national best practices. We are proud of his work and excited to see the impact he will have as NASTAD’s Executive Board President."

As executive board president, Polk will work with apprenticeship leaders across the nation to enhance registered apprenticeship programs and ensure they continue to meet the evolving needs of employers and workers alike. His experience in expanding apprenticeship opportunities in Wisconsin positions him to provide valuable insights as he helps guide apprenticeship policy at the national level.

"Our work in Wisconsin has demonstrated the power of apprenticeships to meet the needs of both employers and apprentices," Polk said. "I’m excited to bring what we’ve learned here to the national stage, sharing best practices and building partnerships that will strengthen apprenticeship systems across the country."

NASTAD’s support for state and territorial apprenticeship agencies is critical in today’s economy, where the demand for highly skilled workers continues to rise. Through its leadership, advocacy, and collaboration with federal partners, NASTAD is helping ensure that apprenticeship remains a key strategy for workforce development across the U.S.

Learn more about Wisconsin Apprenticeship and find out about the NASTAD organization.

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Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.