NORTHWEST LOWER, MI– Northwest Michigan Works!, in partnership with Manthei Construction, has officially launched the region’s first-ever U.S. Department of Labor Registered Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship. The new apprenticeship marks a major milestone for skilled trades training and workforce development in Northwest Lower Michigan.
 
This innovative program will provide apprentices with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience designed to meet industry needs and strengthen the skilled trades pipeline in the region. Apprentices will complete 6,000 hours of on-the-job training, gaining real-world, practical experience under the guidance of experienced Manthei mentors.
 
In addition to on-site learning, apprentices will complete 432 hours of online coursework through Penn Foster, supplemented by employer-provided proprietary classes that deepen technical knowledge and reinforce essential diesel service skills.
 
"I am glad to be a part of Manthei and to be able to be in their apprenticeship program to become a Diesel Mechanic. Currently, I am enjoying my welding classes and looking forward to all I will learn and do in the next three years," remarked Zachary Piechan, Diesel Mechanic Apprentice.
 
“We are grateful for the partnership with the Northwest Michigan Works! apprenticeship team in expanding our USDOL registered apprenticeship programs to now include the occupation of diesel mechanic, first of its kind in the region,” Shauna Sutton, Human Resource and Payroll Manager, Manthei Construction.
 
“Northwest Michigan Works! is proud to sponsor Manthei Construction and Zach in this innovative registered apprenticeship program.  Our team is excited to launch this brand new occupation in our region for progressive employers like Manthei Construction,” commented Evelyn Szpliet, Regional Director of Apprenticeship Services.
 
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. For more information about Registered Apprenticeships through Northwest Michigan Works!, visit nwm.org/apprenticeships