November 8, 2024 

NORTHERN LOWER, MI—Northwest Michigan Works!, a program of Networks Northwest, proudly celebrated the graduation of over 50 registered apprentices from its US Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program.

The graduation ceremony brought together approximately 150 guests including: apprentices, employers, program mentors, families, the State of Michigan, US Department of Labor and community leaders to celebrate this significant milestone. Northwest Michigan Works! Registered Apprenticeship programs equip participants with high-demand skills and nationally recognized certifications, opening doors to sustainable, and rewarding career paths. A variety of 17 different occupations were represented during the ceremony including: Ophthalmic Imaging, Childcare, Customer Service, HVAC, Plumbing, Fiber Optic Line Worker, Medical Biller, Carpenters, and more!

Employers were also recognized for their dedication to the registered apprenticeship model and the first Mentor of the Year Award in remembrance of Scott McCullough was launched; recognizing the positive impact and essential partnership of program mentors.

“Registered Apprenticeships are very important to Wolf Line Construction and our workforce. They provide a graduated wage scale, applied learning, and ultimately develop excellent professionals,” stated Barb Harmon, Director of Human Capitol. The programs we have partnered with the DOL on have been instrumental in the growth of Wolf Line Construction. This year we had eight apprentices graduate and receive their journey worker status in the Fiber Optic Line Worker Program.”

“Northwest Michigan Works! sincerely congratulates all of this year’s graduates, along with the employers and mentors, whose support has been essential in guiding apprentices on their professional journeys,” stated Evelyn Szpliet, Regional Director of Apprenticeship Services. Our apprenticeship team remains dedicated to creating and expanding robust training programs across both traditional and non-traditional occupations, addressing the region’s growing demand for skilled talent. These programs empower individuals to 'earn, learn and lead’ while fostering a highly skilled talent pipeline that strengthens our local economy. Northwest Michigan Works! is excited to continue expanding these apprenticeship opportunities in support of a thriving, resilient workforce for years to come.”

Registered apprenticeships are certified through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor and are a proven training method for employers to build a talent pipeline of highly skilled, educated employees. Northwest Michigan Works! provides technical assistance and administrative support for registered apprenticeships, including development, implementation and program management.

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NOTE to Media: Images are oftentimes available upon request by e-mailing Dana O’Dell at dana.odell@networksnorthwest.org and stating preferences for resolution (300 dpi?), file format (.tif? .jpg?) and file size (1MB or less?). Or, phone (231) 929-5075. Check our online Media Room at: networksnorthwest.org/media

Founded in 1974, Networks Northwest facilitates and manages various programs and services for the 10 county region. These programs include Northwest Michigan Works, Small Business Development Center, Procurement Technical Assistance Center, various business services, and many different regional planning initiatives in response to our communities’ requests and needs. You will see the broad spectrum of workforce, business and community services Networks Northwest offers if you visit our website, networksnorthwest.org. Networks Northwest's member counties are: Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, and Wexford.