Northwest Michigan Works! partners with Manistee County Sheriff’s Office to Register first Police Clerk Apprenticeship in the Region
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 29, 2026
NORTHWEST LOWER, MI — Northwest Michigan Works!, in partnership with the Manistee County Sheriff’s Office, has officially launched the region’s first U.S. Department of Labor–registered Police Clerk Apprenticeship, marking a major milestone for workforce development and professional training in Northwest Lower Michigan.
The innovative apprenticeship provides participants with a structured, hands-on pathway into a critical public safety career. Apprentices will complete 2,000 hours of paid, on-the-job training, gaining real-world experience under the mentorship of seasoned law enforcement professionals while developing the administrative and technical skills essential to modern policing.
In addition to workplace learning, apprentices will complete 225 hours of related instruction through West Shore Community College, along with specialized coursework in Law Enforcement Records Management. Together, these components ensure participants receive a well-rounded education that aligns with industry standards and supports long-term career success.
“Through the support of Northwest Michigan Works! and their Apprenticeship Program, I’ve been able to expand my skills, further my education, and continue building a meaningful career in public service,” says Taylor Sexton, Police Clerk apprentice.
“The Manistee County Sheriff's office is pleased to continue its partnership with the Northwest Michigan Works! Apprenticeship Services team with this brand new, innovative police clerk occupation," commented Brian Gutowski, Manistee County Sheriff.
“Non-traditional registered apprenticeship programs help employers grow their talent while opening new doors for motivated apprentices like Taylor to build successful careers. We are grateful to partner with the Manistee County Sheriff’s Office, a true leader in innovation and a valued Registered Apprenticeship collaborator,” stated Evelyn Szpliet, Northwest Michigan Works! Regional Director of Apprenticeship Services.
Registered apprenticeships are certified through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor and are a proven training method for employers to build a talent pipeline of highly skilled, educated employees. Northwest Michigan Works! provides technical assistance and administrative support for registered apprenticeships, including development, implementation and program management. For more information about Registered Apprenticeships through Northwest Michigan Works!, visit nwm.org/apprenticeships
The Networks Northwest team did a great job to help the City of Charlevoix and Charlevoix Township collaborate in addressing housing challenges in our community. They facilitated dialogue with Planning Commissioners, community stakeholders, and municipal officials to develop a plan for cohesive zoning in areas of growth for our two governments. Further, they were able to pinpoint the challenges in each unit and propose changes that would be beneficial all around. Together, we believe we'll be better prepared for housing developments and job growth in our region. We look forward to working with them on future projects!
- Mark Haydlauff, City Manager, Charlevoix