Businesses benefit from Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) because the model provides customized training to meet the specific needs of a company while also providing career opportunities for current and new employees. Employers who use the RAP training model, combine On-Job-Learning with Related Instruction to help workers gain needed skills, improve employee morale and retention.

Employers can partner with a Group Sponsor (Intermediary) who offer customized support, from program development to completion, minimizing employer development time and accelerating program launch.

Group Sponsors (Intermediaries) can:

• Identify existing models for the employer’s occupation(s) of interest
• Connect employers with available State and Federal Grants
• Develop the employers On-the-Job Learning and education outline based on the employers’ needs
• Submit the employer’s registration paperwork to the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), Office of Apprenticeship for full recognition in the National Registered Apprenticeship System
• Provide assistance with administrative tasks for an employer’s program
• Assist with program updates as workforce needs evolve
• Promote the employer’s program and assist with recruitment as needed

To connect with a Group Sponsor (Intermediary) or get assistance setting up a Registered Apprenticeship Program, please complete the Registered Apprenticeship Michigan Interest Form.

As of November 21, 2024, there are currently more than 30 Group Sponsors (Intermediaries) in Michigan!

IN MEMORY OF ANNETTE DONNELLY, AFL-CIO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE (WDI)

Sadly, just a few days after Annette Donnelly submitted her information for the newsletter, she passed away. A small portion of Annette’s dedication to Registered Apprenticeships is captured below.

Annette Donnelly worked with Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) and apprentices for 15 years, and did so because she was able to witness the positive outcomes of RAPs and the life changing opportunities they create.

Annette was most proud of the success stories, especially hearing and seeing the reaction of the apprentices who are receiving supportive service, reimbursement or fuel cards. In her work with WDI, Annette got to know that every bit of financial assistance helps first- and second-year apprentices. Employers also shared with WDI how the Related Instruction and On-the-Job Learning reimbursements help them expand their RAPs, make training center improvements, and increase the number of classes offered.

In her meager spare time, Annette enjoyed spending time with family, spoiling her grandchildren and finding out of the ordinary places to visit. Annette is missed by many and the work she did with Registered Apprenticeship work will not be forgotten. Her dedication to the growth of Registered Apprenticeship Programs in Michigan was deeply appreciated by everyone who had the privilege of working with her.

VIKKI GORDON, MACOMB COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Dr. ViKki Gordon serves as the Apprentice Coordinator & Professor for Macomb Community College, Skilled-Trades Applied Technology and Apprenticeship. For two decades, she has been involved with Registered Apprenticeship Programs.

In her previous career, Vikki was a Tool Designer in the manufacturing industry, where she designed automated tooling that assembles automobiles. In that career—and even before that growing up and working in Flint—she had the pleasure of working with many different types of skilled trades people in various contexts.

Vikki has a deep love and appreciation for the industry from which she came, and has sought to continue to support and care for that industry through education. Vikki’s respect for the industry has driven her to contribute to the success of apprentices, their employers and the industry. 

Vikki makes the most of her free moments by engaging in yoga, enjoying live music, reading, and spending time with her boyfriend, his children and both of their dogs.

EVELYN SZPLIET, NETWORKS NORTHWEST/NORTHWEST MICHIGAN WORKS!

Evelyn Szpliet is the Regional Director of Apprenticeship Services for Networks Northwest/Northwest Michigan Works!, and has worked with Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) for the past eight years.

Evelyn enjoys watching employers develop their programs and sharing the apprentices' success through this customized training model.

Evelyn takes great pride in her contributions to RAPs and the apprentices involved. She is proud of the fact that she is involved with creating non-traditional Registered Apprenticeship occupations, which includes the development of innovative curriculum and fully accessible training. This approach provides flexibility for both employers and apprentices alike.

Outside of work, Evelyn loves to drive her classic convertible, wood crafting, painting, hiking, fishing, boating, and anything done with her family and friends.

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

Natalie Belis, a member of the Forbes Council discusses the importance and benefits of forming partnerships in the article, "How Smart Partnerships Can Create Winning Business Opportunities." Smart partnerships can lead to successful opportunities for growth and advancement.  

Collaboration with other organizations can leverage the strengths and resources which can lead to increased market share, expanded reach and improved product offerings. Selecting the right partners for a successful partnership can provide access to new technology and expertise that may not be readily available within the organization.

Partners who share similar values, goals and commitment to success must establish clear communication and trust to build a strong foundation. Regular assessment and evaluation ensure both parties are benefiting and achieving desired outcomes.

By collaborating with the right partners and fostering strong relationships, businesses can unlock new possibilities for growth and success. In a competitive business environment, partnerships can be a valuable tool for achieving long-term success.

Goal: Share your expertise with a new partner this month

Casey served as a unit secretary at Oakview Medical Care Facility. Although she excelled in her role, she lacked practical experience in patient care, and she was eager to gain that experience. Driven by her passion for healthcare, she enrolled in Certified Nursing Assistant classes and completed her certification in July 2024. The credential allowed Casey to join Oakview's USDOL-registered 2000 Competency-Based Licensed Practical Nurse Registered Apprenticeship Program, through Group Sponsor (Intermediary) Michigan Works! West Central. 

Casey is now working full-time as a Licensed Practical Nurse Registered Apprentice at Oakview Medical Care Facility while also completing her 218 Related Instruction hours at West Shore Community College. Oakfield Medical Care Facility, a ninety-six bed, high-quality long-term healthcare facility, plans to develop a Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program in the future, providing a career pathway for Casey and others.

"The flexibility of the apprenticeship program allows me to manage my time effectively, enabling me to gain practical experience while pursuing my education," shared Casey. "This balance is essential for achieving my career goals, as it ensures I am well prepared for the demands of the nursing field. This practical exposure, combined with mentorship has been a cornerstone of my apprenticeship at Oakview, providing guidance and support from seasoned nurses."

Casey's mentor, the department head, human resource staff, colleagues and Michigan Works! West Central staff celebrated Casey's remarkable achievement on November 21, 2024, during National Apprenticeship Week.

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