Northwest Michigan Works! partners with Walstrom Marine to Register first Marine Services Technician Apprenticeship in the Region
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2026
Northwest Michigan Works!, in partnership with Walstrom Marine, has officially launched the region’s first-ever U.S. Department of Labor Registered Marine Services Technician Apprenticeship. The new apprenticeship marks a major milestone for professional trades training and workforce development in Northwest Lower Michigan.
This innovative program will provide apprentices with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience designed to meet industry needs and strengthen the skilled trades pipeline in the region. Apprentices will complete 6,000 hours of on-the-job training, gaining real-world, and practical experience under the guidance of qualified, professional and proficient mentors.
In addition to on-site learning, apprentices will complete 435 hours of comprehensive proprietary coursework through the employer and vendor partners that deepen technical knowledge and reinforce essential marine technician skills.
“Walstrom Marine truly gets what this industry needs—by investing in an apprenticeship program, we’re showing the next generation that we’re serious about their future and that a career in the marine industry can offer a lifelong connection to the water. I’m grateful to be part of a company that has been such a strong foundation for me and my family, and I’m excited to help give back by showing others that a life on the water isn’t just a dream—it’s a real and rewarding career path,” stated Brian Johnson, Lead Marine Technician.
“Developing in-demand registered apprenticeship programs, like Marine Services Technician, allows employers the opportunity to upskill their workforce using customized methods that meet their specific workforce needs. Northwest Michigan Works! is proud to sponsor Walstrom Marine and their Marine Services Technician program,” remarked 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