In this episode, noted labor economist Bob Lerman joins us to shed light on a subject that few people in the field of economics and certainly few people in Washington have thought as deeply about-apprenticeships. At a time when US manufacturing executives are expressing increasing concern about the scarcity of workers who are qualified for a wide range of manufacturing jobs, Dr. Lerman’s unique insights into the development and long-term value of apprenticeship programs are critical for the productivity and competitiveness of the factory sector. Throughout the interview, Bob offers details on the architecture of apprenticeships, issues arising from technological disruption, the role of the public sector in fostering apprenticeship programs and on the return from their implementation.