Celebrating
National Apprenticeship Week
National Apprenticeship Week 2024 is November 17-23 and Michigan Works! joined forces with local employers to celebrate apprentices that have made a lasting impact in their industry.
This nationwide celebration provides Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren the opportunity to highlight how Registered Apprenticeship Programs can help address some of our nation’s most pressing workforce challenges. To celebrate this nationwide event, Michigan Works! went in search of current or alumni apprentices that have been dedicated to their area of focus.
The 2024 Awardees:
Award Winner
Jacob Ashcraft • Machine Builder
Jacob is a third-year Machine Builder apprentice at Edgewater Automation.
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Edgewater Automation recommended Jacob because: "Jacob is the perfect employee, on time, never sick, always happy. Listens and commutates great. He is a great leader. Jacob is getting ready to lead his first machine build."
Award Winner
Thomas Ashmead • Mold Maker
Thomas is a second-year Mold Maker apprentice at Hanson International.
Hanson International recommended Thomas because: "Thomas is an exceptional apprentice with a genuine enthusiasm for learning. His positive attitude and natural talent for the industry have stood out. Throughout his apprenticeship, he has demonstrated a strong understanding of machining and a keen attention to detail, consistently striving for precision in his work."
Award Winner
Carlos Hernandez • Machinist
Carlos is a second-year Machinist apprentice at Max³, LLC.
Max³ recommended Carlos because: "Carlos is a dedicated worker. He shows up on time and ready for work on a daily basis. He takes help and criticism well. He wants to learn as an apprentice and doesn't make excuses. He participates and helps in the shop if it is needed."
Award Winner
Ryan McCuddy • Machinist
Ryan McCuddy is a first-year Machinist apprentice at Grotnes.
Grotnes recommended Ryan because: "Ryan is aggressively learning and applying new skills to perform toleranced parts on a lathe."
Award Winner
Dany Pardo • Electrical Assembly
Dany Pardo is a second-year Electrical Assembly apprentice at Convergix Automation.
Convergix Automation recommended Dany because: "Dany is an outstanding apprentice who consistently goes above and beyond to support her fellow apprentices. Her dedication to helping others, coupled with her strong work ethic, allows her to exceed all expectations in her role."
Award Winner
Jordan Williams • Machine Builder
​Jordan Williams is a third-year Machine Builder apprentice at Edgewater Automation.
Edgewater Automation recommended Jacob because: "Jordan is the first person I go to when I need something, always willing to help and learn new things. What sets him above is his personality. He is always happy and willing to help anyone."