Volumes Salon partners with Northwest Michigan Works! for first Cosmetologist Apprenticeship Program

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 14, 2026

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PETOSKEY, MI– Northwest Michigan Works!, a program of Networks Northwest, in partnership with Petoskey-based Volumes Salon, has launched the region’s first U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program for cosmetologists.  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 essential industry and LARA requirements while strengthening the skilled trades pipeline in the region. Apprentices will complete 12 months of on the job learning, gaining real-world, and practical experience under the guidance of qualified, professional and proficient mentors.

In addition to on-site learning, apprentices will complete 350 hours of comprehensive online coursework through Milady Cosmetology Instruction that will deepen technical skills and meet the stringent State of Michigan Cosmetology licensing requirements.  

“Volumes Salon is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this cosmetology apprenticeship program through Northwest Michigan Works!.  As a salon owner, it has been very rewarding to help provide hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world experience to someone pursuing a career in the beauty industry. We truly appreciate the support Northwest Michigan Works! has provided in making this apprenticeship possible. It is an amazing opportunity to invest in the next generation of professionals while also helping our salon and community grow,” stated Karen Culbertson, Owner of Volumes Salon. 

“The Northwest Michigan Works! Apprenticeship Services Team is proud to develop, launch, and support high-quality U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, including innovative pathways such as Cosmetologist. Our team works alongside local businesses to build customized training programs that respond to real workforce needs across nearly every industry sector while following stringent state and federal regulations.  Launching a program is only the beginning. We remain engaged with employers and apprentices every step of the way—providing ongoing support, strengthening programs, addressing challenges, and helping ensure each apprenticeship remains successful and sustainable for the long term,” 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