On August 7, students and their families joined local carpenters and educators from the Allegan Area ESA for a “signing day” to kick-off a new way for students to earn class credits. These students will be the first of many in the Allegan Area ESA to learn a skilled trade through a dual enrollment program at the Carpenter and Millwright training center during their senior year of high school.
“To me, an apprenticeship means the ability to secure a future helping to build establishments like schools,” said Sierra E, a student who will participate in the dual enrollment program starting this fall. “An apprenticeship with the Carpenters Union will help me grow as a person and learn through hands-on experience that will help me succeed on the path I choose.”
The dual enrollment program is being made possible through a partnership between the Allegan Area ESA and the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights. It will see students take 17-week Metal Framing and Drywall class offered at the Union Carpenters and Millwrights Skilled Training Center in Wayland. By learning in the training center’s state-of-the-art classrooms and shop areas, students will be able to earn credit toward their high school diploma, and a full-quarter’s credit toward the Carpenter’s apprenticeship program.
“The Allegan Area ESA Tech Center is very excited to provide this fantastic opportunity for our students in the Building Trades program,” said Rich Okoniewski. “Through the priceless partnership we have with the Carpenters and Millwrights, our students will be able to acquire valuable skills and credits through the Wayland Carpenters and Millwrights Training Center and begin their post-secondary journey while a senior in high school. This is a tremendous advantage to our students, and it would not be possible without the advocacy, mission, and passion of the Brotherhood of the Carpenters and Millwrights.”
Students who successfully complete the Allegan Area ESA’s dual enrollment program will receive preferred admission into the Carpenters and Millwrights four-year Apprenticeship Program after graduation. This Department of Labor Accredited and tuition free apprenticeship teaches life-long skills and offers certifications recognized across the United States and Canada, offering access to a lucrative and meaningful skilled trades career.