Digital Transformation Consulting

In 2016, Accenture identified a significant skills gap in the workforce and launched a professional apprenticeship program aimed at addressing this issue. The challenge was to rethink their talent strategy to integrate apprenticeships into their recruitment and training processes. This initiative was further supported by the co-founding of the Chicago Apprentice Network in collaboration with Aon and Zurich North America, which aimed to assist other companies in establishing their own apprenticeship programs. As a result, Accenture has successfully created 11 Apprentice Networks that now encompass over 200 companies committed to advancing career opportunities.

The apprenticeship program at Accenture is designed to make apprentices a vital part of their talent strategy, with a goal of having apprentices comprise 20% of their entry-level hires in the US and Canada by FY25. Since its inception, the program has onboarded more than 2,500 apprentices across over 40 cities. The program not only provides hands-on experience and mentorship but also offers competitive compensation and benefits, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking to enter the workforce without a traditional four-year degree.

The results of this initiative have been significant. Research indicates that reskilled workers, such as those who have gone through the apprenticeship program, outperform their peers in various key performance indicators, including attitude, work ethic, productivity, quality of work, engagement, attendance, and innovation. This approach not only helps fill critical professional roles but also promotes inclusivity and economic mobility, thereby creating a more equitable workforce.