Easier said than done. Many young people lack the motivation and foresight to be able to successfully complete an apprenticeship, which starts out at a relatively low rate of pay. They come in, work for a few days and then say, "This is too hard and too messy. Why should I work so hard when I can make more on unemployment?"
But maybe they all wouldn’t. If they’re worried there isn’t such a program they need to at least make an effort. If they don’t have the response, that’s one thing. But at least they can’t say “there’s no apprenticeship program” and try to pass the buck on down the line.