Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Welcome to Registered Apprenticeship Michigan’s newsletter, “Inside Track”. Our mission is to provide valuable insights of Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs), delve into the collaborative efforts of partners, and celebrate Michigan achievements in expanding the use of the training model. Through our newsletter, RAP stakeholders gain insight to additional program benefits, meet potential partners across the state and build stronger connections. Monthly issues will help more and more Michigan partners cross the Registered Apprenticeship finish line!

We apologize for the inconvenience; the previous version of the newsletter was missing information for the MEATA 2025 Spring Conference. That information has been added to the Upcoming Events section below.

IN THIS ISSUE…

• Fast Lane Feature: RAP Myths & Frequently Asked Questions
• Ask The Expert: RAP Myths & Frequently Asked Questions
• Racing Team Partners
• Working Better Together
• Make Your MARC!
• Winners Circle
• Upcoming Events
• Race to Talent™ Events
• Tune-Up Tips

Fast Lane Feature: RAP Myths & Frequently Asked Questions

Finding and retaining skilled talent is more crucial than ever. Misconceptions about RAPs may deter some employers from registering their training programs. However, the benefits from taking the additional step to register your current training program outweigh the effort. These benefits compel clarification of potential concerns and/or misunderstandings. Answers below to myths and frequently asked questions can help. Myths Myth 1: RAPs are only for traditional trades like construction. Reality: While historically associated with trades, Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) in Michigan are available in every industry and a growing number (1,000+) of occupations, including IT, health and human services, education, advanced manufacturing, hospitality and more. Myth 2: RAPs are too expensive and time-consuming for small businesses. Reality: RAPs are highly flexible and scaled to fit your business size and resources. Group Sponsors (Intermediaries) now provide many employers program support and can access funding to help offset costs. Long-term RAP benefits from a high-skilled, loyal workforce far outweigh initial investment. Myth 3: RAPs are only for young people just out of school. Reality: RAPs are open to individuals of all ages and experience levels. They can be a valuable tool for upskilling existing employees, retraining displaced workers and attracting career changers. Frequently Asked Questions Q: What exactly is a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)? A: RAPs are a structured employer-driven earn-while-you-learn training model, combining on-job-learning with experienced mentors, with related classroom instruction. Training is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, so program completers earn an industry-recognized national credential. Q: How does my business benefit from a Registered Apprenticeship Program? A: Registered Apprenticeships offer numerous benefits, including: Knowledge Transfer: Registered Apprentices instantly fill a job opening and start an immediate transfer of critical knowledge from current to future high-skill workers. Reduced Recruitment Costs: Develop talent from within instead of expensive external hiring. Improved Employee Retention: A “Culture of Professional Growth” is proven to help employees remain with their employer long-term. Q: How long does a Registered Apprenticeship Program typically last? A: RAP durations vary depending on occupational skills required. Programs range from one to six years, with most programs lasting between two and four years. Q: How do I start a Registered Apprenticeship Program? A: Starting a Registered Apprenticeship Program in Michigan is as easy as 1, 2, 3 . . . (see below) STEP 1: Supply contact information here Registered Apprenticeship Michigan Interest Form.

Ask The Expert: RAP Myths & Frequently Asked Questions

Questions, myths and perceived obstacles often stop companies from registering their existing training as a RAP. Join this session on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 1-2 p.m. to learn how Kalitta Air LLC and IOSCO ISD overcame myths and built a non-traditional RAP for Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Technicians.

Register for the virtual event here.

Racing Team Partners

AMY JURY, MACOMB COMMUNITY COLLEGE Amy J. Jury is the Health Apprenticeship Navigator at Macomb Community College, working within the Health & Public Services Division. Her journey with Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) began in August 2022, and she brings to this role her experience as a Registered Respiratory Therapist and Macomb Community College alumna. Amy's passion for RAPs stems from her firsthand understanding of the healthcare industry's growing need for skilled professionals and her desire to help students access career pathways. She believes RAPs offer invaluable opportunities for both students and employers, fostering a diverse and skilled workforce. Amy is most proud of the opportunity to support students and employers and witness the positive outcomes of these collaborations. Outside of work, Amy cherishes time with her family, enjoys relaxing at her lake home, loves to cook and is currently pursuing a doctorate from Walden University, expected in 2026.

BRAD PIERCE, IRONWORKERS LOCAL 25 Brad Pierce is an integral member of the Ironworkers Local 25 Labor-Management Education Committee and has been passionately involved with Registered Apprenticeships for over 12 years, beginning his journey as a Registered Apprentice himself. Brad is a firm believer in the transformative power of Union Registered Apprenticeship Programs, both in his own life and in the lives of countless others. He advocates for debt-free education and training, emphasizing how it opens doors to brighter career prospects and better livelihoods. Brad takes pride in introducing individuals to the ironworking profession, especially those who might not have considered it otherwise. He regularly participates in Registered Apprenticeship events, showcasing his dedication to the growth of RAPs and career opportunities. When not working, Brad enjoys cheering for the Detroit Lions and spending quality time with family and friends.

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

Working Better Together

In the article, The Power Of Strategic Partnerships: Driving Business Growth Through Collaboration, Bharath Kumar Kakkireni emphasizes that strategic partnerships go beyond simple transactions; they involve creating mutually beneficial relationships where each partner brings unique strengths and resources to the table. By carefully selecting partners with complementary expertise and shared goals, businesses can unlock opportunities for innovation, efficiency gains and increased market penetration. Goal: Ensure all partners gain and contribute equally

Make Your MARC!

Not all Pre-Apprenticeship programs are the same . . . The Michigan Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate (MARC) endorses “high-quality” training programs that prepare individuals and connect them to Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) opportunities. Individuals receiving MARC Level I certificates are ready to enter an RAP in a specific industry sector and attain “advanced standing” for an interview, reducing recruitment time and cost for program sponsors. Individuals receiving MARC Level II certificates are ready to enter a RAP in a specific occupation, attain “advanced standing” for an interview, and if hired, receive credit for On-Job-Learning and Related Instruction, reducing RAP time and cost for program sponsors. Complete the MARC Interest Form to have your Apprentice Readiness program MARC endorsed.

Winners Circle

TODD CARPENTER, STATIONARY ENGINEER REGISTERED APPRENTICE, NEXTEER AUTOMOTIVE Todd Carpenter exemplifies dedication both in his professional and academic pursuits. As a Registered Stationary Engineer Apprentice at Nexteer Automotive, he has maintained exceptional attendance and a 4.0 GPA while contributing to study groups and honing problem-solving skills through 6 Sigma Fast X training. “Todd is a cornerstone of Nexteer’s powerhouse operations, a facility requiring 24/7 coverage, consistently stepping up to cover shifts and ensuring smooth operations,” stated Trish Fowler, Maintenance Manager at Nexteer Automotive. With a robust background from his six years in the U.S. Navy and the industry knowledge he brought from a previous position, John Herrington, Apprentice Committee Chair, explained, “Todd saved the company over $320K by handling rebuilds internally, restoring pumps and maintaining air compressors.” Beyond work, Todd's passion for community shines. For 30 years, he has supported the Special Olympics in the tri-city area. He dedicated 13 years coaching travel softball with the Saginaw Bay River Dawgz and volunteered as a mentor at the Bay City Boys and Girls Club for 5 years. Todd Carpenter was named the 2024 MASCI Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year because of his unwavering commitment to collaboration, excellence and community service.

TORCH 180: CULINARY REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM Torch 180 is an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals, particularly those with disabilities, to succeed beyond financial gain. The driving force behind this initiative, Rhonda Callahan, has worked tirelessly to develop meaningful programs that provide individuals with skills, training and real-world experience to help them integrate into the workforce and beyond. The journey began more than a decade ago when Rhonda started discussing potential programs with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS). This collaboration led to the development of training programs specifically tailored for persons with disabilities who were customers of MRS. Together, they worked out a curriculum provided by the Michigan Career & Technical Institute that ensures students gain useful skills for their future endeavors. In the spring of 2016, the first group of students was officially taught and engaged with Torch 180, marking a pivotal moment for the program. By the end of 2018, Torch 180 had fully emerged as a structured initiative, leading to the launch of the first competency-based culinary apprenticeship program in July 2021. This collaboration between MCTI, MRS and Torch 180 created an opening for even more training for students with disabilities. A key aspect of Rhonda’s work has been the continuous refinement of the curriculum to ensure its relevance. For instance, she has advocated for increased credit allocation to practical customer service training compared to less applicable subjects like recreational math. Even during informal discussions, Rhonda has demonstrated her commitment to innovation—one such example being her spontaneous idea for a "cash register class" to further enhance student training.

If you have a Registered Apprenticeship success story or want to highlight your company's work with Registered Apprenticeships, please send a request to apprenticeship@michigan.gov.

Upcoming Events

Michigan Safety Conference

Location:  333 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933
Date: April 14-16, 2025
Time: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The Michigan Safety Conference is a volunteer organization dedicated to promoting the improvement of workplace safety and health practices in the State of Michigan. The Michigan Safety Conference exists to provide education, and to create a community of experts, to help eliminate workplace injuries and fatalities. Register for the conference here.

2025 MI Healthy Climate Conference

Hosted By: Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy
Location: Huntington Place in Detroit – 1 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
Date: April 22-23, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Join EGLE on the “Road to 2030” at the 2025 MI Healthy Climate Conference in Detroit! We are hosting this 1.5-day event to report on the progress of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, build connections and empower collaboration, mobilize opportunities and prioritize next steps towards reaching the goals of the Plan. Register for the MI Healthy Climate Conference here. 

Apprenticeship Accelerator event: Medical Assistant Focus

Hosted By: Delta College
Location: 1961 Delta Dr, Frankenmuth, MI 48710
Date: April 23, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Attendees will become aware of the opportunities that exist to meet industry needs through Registered Apprenticeship while hearing about the return on investment, recruitment, and retention benefits of Registered Apprenticeship from employers with current Registered Apprenticeship Programs. Questions? Email geraldrussell@delta.edu or wellhour@michiganworks.com.

Michigan Career & Technical Institute (MCTI) Open House

Hosted by: The Michigan Career & Technical Institute
Location: 11611 W. Pine Lake Road, Plainwell, MI 49080
Date: April 23, 2025

MCTI provides individualized career development, education, training, and support services for individuals with disabilities preparing for and engaging in competitive integrated employment. Call 877-901-7360 to reserve a spot for the self-guided tour.

2025 Michigan Occupational Special Association (MOSPA) State Conference

Hosted By: The Michigan Occupational Special Populations Association
Location: Boyne Mountain Resort – 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Date: April 30, 2025 - May 2, 2025
Time: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

MOSPA is pleased to welcome K-12 educators, post-secondary faculty and staff, community partners, administrators, non-profit partners, government agencies and other professionals to attend the 2025 MOSPA State Conference! Each year the state conference committee puts together an event that meets both the expressed wishes and diverse needs of our attendees. Register for the MOSPA conference here. 

Race to Talent™ Event

Hosted By: Northwest Michigan Works!
Location: Networks Northwest Conference Center – 1209 S Garfield Road, Traverse City, MI 49685
Date: April 30, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Please join Northwest Michigan Works! for a Registered Apprenticeship Lunch and Learn and Race to Talent™ Celebration! Register for the Northwest Michigan Works! Race to Talent™ Event here.

Race to Talent™ Event

Hosted By: Oakland County Michigan Works!
Location: Oakland County Executive Office Building – 2100 Pontiac Lake Road Waterford Township, MI 48328
Date: April 30, 2025
Time: 2 - 4 p.m.

Oakland County employers interested in launching their own Registered Apprenticeship Program to separate themselves in the race to build a talented workforce are invited to a special workshop and panel discussion hosted by Oakland County Michigan Works!. Learn from experts and hear from employment partners how an intermediary can help facilitate the administrative process of starting and maintaining a viable Registered Apprenticeship Program. Register for the Oakland County Michigan Works! Race to Talent™ Event here.

Race to Talent™ Event

Hosted By: Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC)
Location: Henry Ford College – 5101 Evergreen Rd., Dearborn, MI 48128
Date: April 30, 2025
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Please join us for a Race to Talent™ Event with DESC, where you can learn about the Construction Industry's Registered Apprenticeship Programs and networks! Register for the DESC Race to Talent™ Event here. 

National Apprenticeship Day Events

Celebrate the Annual National Apprenticeship Day (April 30) by attending or hosting an event! Learn more at Apprenticeship.gov.

Michigan Energy Efficiency Conference and Exhibition

Hosted By: DTE Energy and The Engineering Society of Detroit
Location: Suburban Collection Showplace – 46100 Grand River, Novi, MI 48167
Date: May 6, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

In its 26th year, this conference, the only one of its kind in Michigan, is designed to educate small to large commercial and industrial businesses on technology, products and services that will assist them in successful energy management. Register for the Michigan Energy Efficiency Conference and Exhibition here. 

Race to Talent™ Event

Hosted By: Michigan Works! Region 7B
Location: Riverwalk Place – 777 W Cedar Ave Gladwin, MI 48624
Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Join us for the Race to Talent with Registered Apprenticeship Event, an exciting celebration and recognition event aimed at honoring employers in the Michigan Works! Region 7B region who are leading the charge in workforce development through registered apprenticeships. This event will showcase employers who are currently investing in the future of Michigan's workforce by providing hands-on, practical training in three critical sectors: Childcare, Manufacturing and Health & Human Services.

Michigan Educators Apprenticeship and Training Association (MEATA) 2025 Spring Conference

Hosted By: MEATA
Location: Blue Water Convention Center – 800 Harker St. Port Huron, MI, 48060
Date: May 20-22, 2025

Please join us at the MEATA 2025 Spring Conference as we bring together those who utilize apprenticeship and other like workforce training solutions to grow and expand Michigan’s talent! MEATA will have a lot of great presentations and hands-on activities including apprenticeship tours that you do not want to miss. Register for the MEATA Sprint Conference here.

It’s an opportunity to network, learn and celebrate the businesses that are paving the way for the future of talent in Michigan. Register for the Michigan Works! 7B Race to Talent™ Event here. 

Be sure to visit the Registered Apprenticeship Michigan website to see the latest list of upcoming event.

Race to Talent™ Events

Successful Race to Talent™ events bring together business, labor, education, community and workforce development leaders who contribute to an in-depth discussion around stakeholder benefits from using the Registered Apprenticeship training model to grow needed talent for business success. Event participants contribute by following a structured outline proven to:

• Raise Awareness of the numerous stakeholders benefits the training model provides
• Recognize Partners by introducing those in the region and/or sectors already using the model to accelerate skill development and business success
• Recruit New Partners whose organizations can benefit from using the training model

Find more information on Race to Talent™ event here.

Tune-Up Tips

Resources to help you get started in Registered Apprenticeship.

US Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship (USDOL OA)

The one-stop national source for connecting career seekers, employers, and education partners with national apprenticeship resources. Discover Registered Apprenticeships across industries, how programs are started by employers, and how to become an apprentice.

Michigan Works! Apprenticeship Success Coordinators

Contact your local Michigan Works! Apprenticeship Success Coordinator to assist your company with developing a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Michigan State Approving Agency

Find information about employers, labor trades and training providers approved for veteran educational benefits through the GI Bill.

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) provides the connections, expertise and innovative solutions to drive continued business growth, build vibrant communities, create affordable housing, generate tourism and attract and retain key talent to fill Michigan’s vast pipeline of opportunities. LEO’s mission statement is to expand economic opportunity and prosperity for all.

Registered Apprenticeship Interest Form

Want to learn more about Registered Apprenticeship? Please use the link to be contacted by a local Michigan Works! Apprenticeship Success Coordinator who can answer any questions you may have about RAPS.

Connect with us on social media!

Get personalized voter information on early voting and other topics