Letters: In Search of Apprentices

To the Editor:

“A Dearth of Investment in Young Workers” (Economic View, Sept. 8) did not mention a traditional, common-sense solution to the problem of finding solid, long-term careers for young adults just starting out. It has been around since the Middle Ages: the master/apprentice system — though now without beating or starving the indentured.

Apprenticeships are a wise business investment in practical education that ensures a dependable, qualified work force. Rolls-Royce in Britain, for example, has such a system, and it benefits the company, its clients, its staff and the economy. Quality enterprises in Germany do the same.

There is nothing better than hands-on, on-the-real-job experience under competent supervision, especially for physical activities like construction. Combine that real-world experience with relevant courses in the liberal arts as well as science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and society will have well-rounded workers capable of meeting future challenges.

MRS. WILLIAM J.B. DUFFY

Philadelphia, Sept. 8