Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) are a valuable resource for individuals seeking to gain hands-on experience and training in a specific trade or profession. These programs provide a structured path for participants to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen field. One group that has proven to be particularly well-suited for RAPs is veterans. Hiring veterans as registered apprentices can bring a wide range of benefits to both the veterans themselves and the companies that employ them.

Historically, veterans have been seen as highly desirable candidates for apprenticeship programs due to their unique skill set and experience. Veterans often possess strong work ethic, discipline and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for success in an apprenticeship program. Additionally, veterans are accustomed to working in diverse and challenging environments, making them well-equipped to handle the demands of a RAP.

The impact of hiring veterans for RAPs is significant, both for the veterans themselves and for the companies that employ them. For veterans, participating in a registered apprenticeship can provide valuable training and experience in a specific trade or profession, helping them to transition smoothly into civilian employment. Veterans who complete apprenticeship programs are more likely to secure stable, well-paying jobs and experience long-term success in their chosen field.

For employers, hiring veterans as registered apprentices can bring a wide range of benefits. Veterans are known for their strong work ethic, adaptability and dedication, making them valuable assets to companies looking to fill skilled labor positions. Additionally, companies that participate in RAPs for veterans may be eligible for various tax incentives and workforce development grants, making it a cost-effective solution for addressing their skilled labor needs.

JULIE SANDERS, MICHIGAN WORKS! WEST CENTRAL

Julie Sanders has been engaged with Registered Apprenticeship Programs at Michigan Works! West Central since March of 2022. She collaborates with employers to create U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) with training that is customized to a specific occupation, and helps employers concentrate on their recruitment and retention requirements. Julie feels a deep sense of fulfillment from engaging with registered apprentices who are actively contributing to their own growth by embracing the apprenticeship opportunity.

Julie is excited that Michigan Works! West Central has recognized the significance of the apprenticeship training model and has prioritized apprenticeships as one of their three strategic goals. The Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship Michigan has given the green light to three registered apprenticeship programs in the region, with an additional four programs anticipated in the coming 8-12 months. During her leisure time, Julie finds joy in everything related to Disney, exploring new places, and camping adventures, along with spoiling her grandbabies!

KENNY MEERCHAERT, MICHIGAN CAT

For more than two decades, Ken “Kenny” Meerschaert has played a significant role in overseeing the Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) at Michigan CAT in one way or another. He works with RAPs because they contribute to the sustainability of a business, enabling Michigan CAT to cultivate robust relationships that foster long-term success. Working closely with an apprentice and shaping them into potential future leaders has brought immense satisfaction in various ways to Kenny and has contributed to addressing shortcomings that have been encountered in the educational system.

During Kenny’s time away from work he enjoys the company of his wife Michelle. They are proud parents of two children: Mackenzie and Jake, who are pursuing their degrees at Michigan State University and Northern Michigan University. When time allows, Kenny and his family plan time away in the Upper Peninsula. Kenny also likes to repair things and spend time outdoors.

GABRIEL FORKEL, APPRENTICESHIP SPECIALIST – (MiCRI) MICHIGAN CITIZEN REENTRY INITIATIVE AT THE MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY

Gabriel Forkel recently began working as an Apprenticeship Specialist with the Michigan Citizens Reentry Initiative (MiCRI) at Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. While he is still acclimating to his current position, his journey with registered apprenticeship programs began early in his career as an apprentice welder and pipe fitter after high school. Gabriel also served as a Welding Instructor at the Vocational Village within the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC). He finds great fulfillment in working together with individuals reintegrating into society and takes pride in engaging in work that fosters a positive influence on both the individuals involved and the broader community.

Gabriel feels this position is tailored to him – a feeling he had as soon as he read the program description. He is filled with pride to witness the fruits of diligent effort coming to fruition. In his journey with students, he contributed to their achievements and encouraged their participation in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. However, he views his role primarily as a guide, setting the stage for their success. While he is generally not an emotional person, witnessing someone who has endured a decade of incarceration express profound gratitude—especially as they celebrate their first genuine achievement and gain a legitimate means to support their family—truly reaches him.

During his leisure hours, Gabriel is pursuing his MBA and has recently taken an interest in nature, wildlife and astrophotography alongside his two daughters.

If you would like to be featured as a partner, please let us know by emailing apprenticeship@michigan.gov.

The Mind Tools article "How Businesses Work Together" explores the concept of collaboration between businesses, highlighting the importance of businesses working together to achieve mutual goals and to create a more competitive environment.

One key point in the article is the idea that businesses can benefit greatly from collaborating with one another. By pooling resources, sharing information, and leveraging each other's strengths, businesses can achieve greater success than if they were working alone. This collaboration can take many forms, including partnerships, joint ventures and strategic alliances.

The article also highlights the importance of effective communication in business collaboration. Clear communication is essential for ensuring all parties are on the same page and working towards the same goals. Without open and honest communication, misunderstandings can arise and conflicts can escalate, leading to a breakdown in the collaboration.

Another key point in the article is the importance of trust in business relationships. Trust is essential for successful collaboration, as it allows businesses to feel confident in each other's abilities and intentions. Building trust takes time and effort, but it is crucial for creating strong and lasting partnerships.

Overall, the article emphasizes the benefits of businesses working together and provides guidance on how to effectively collaborate with other organizations. By fostering strong relationships, communicating effectively, and building trust, businesses can achieve greater success and create a more competitive environment for themselves.

Goal: Collaborate with a new partner this month.

Meet Stephen Hutchinson and his partners at The Elite Group

After a successful career in the financial industry, Stephen Hutchinson aspired to become a teacher. He took a significant step by being among the first Elite School employees to join the three-year Registered K-12 Teacher Apprenticeship Program.

Leo Carr, Executive President of the Elite Group, shared that the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) emerged from their struggle to find teachers. As the RAP came into existence, thanks to the Registered Apprenticeship Standards holders, Workforce Intelligence Network (WIN) / SEMCA, Stephen eagerly stepped forward to begin his training journey. He possessed a bachelor’s degree in sociology yet wanted to become a State of Michigan Certified Teacher. Stephen thrived as a teacher apprentice, swiftly fulfilling his class requirements with Training Educators and Creating Hope (TEACH), a hybrid Related Instruction (RI) provider.

After completing his RI requirements, he took the State of Michigan test for teacher certification and achieved success by earning his interim teaching credential. Stephen has thrived as a full-time teacher and has risen to the position of Social Studies Department Head at the school he works for.

Meet Paige Richer and her partners at Zubke Family Dentistry

Paige Richer walked into the Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! eager to seek assistance with funding for a Dental Assistant training program. The class was unfortunately canceled because it did not meet the required enrollment numbers. Before seeking assistance from her local Michigan Works!, she was employed part-time at a chain store that offered no opportunities for career advancement.

As she explored the opportunities within Registered Apprenticeship Programs, her interest grew in pursuing a Registered Dental Assistant Apprenticeship Program. With the help of Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!, Paige refined her resume and was offered valuable advice on seeking dental clinics willing to employ her despite her lack of prior experience. Paige discovered Zubke Family Dentistry, who welcomed her with open arms, enabling Michigan Works! to assist with her new position through On-the-Job Training (OJT) funds.

After finishing the on-the-job training, Zubkey Family Dentistry was eager to find ways to support Paige in advancing her career. Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! teamed up with the company to establish a Registered Dental Assistant Apprenticeship Program – the company's first program! – and promptly registered Paige as their first apprentice. Paige has embarked on her journey as a full-time apprentice, engaging in Related Instruction through CareerStep, an online training provider, while diligently logging hours to meet her On-the-Job Learning (OJL) requirements.

If you have a success story that you would like shared in an upcoming newsletter issue, please send it to apprenticeship@michigan.gov.