New Carpenter Apprenticeship Helps Habitat for Humanity Meet Demand for Workers

August 18, 2022

A new carpenter apprenticeship program will help Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region meet the demand for skilled workers. Habitat for Humanity is partnering with Northwest Michigan Works! on the US Department of Labor registered carpenter apprenticeship. This is the first ever carpenter apprentice for Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region. The apprenticeship was formally kicked off at a signing ceremony August 11 in Kalkaska.

Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region worked with Northwest Michigan Works! to develop the apprenticeship. The program will provide a minimum of 12 months of on-the-job learning along with 148 hours of related technical instruction. The related coursework complements the hands-on training and is offered through multiple educational providers including Northwestern Michigan College Extended Education Services, Certified Training Institute (Michigan Builders Pre-Licensing Division) and Habitat for Humanity. 

“Habitat for Humanity is thrilled with the opportunity to partner with Northwest Michigan Works! on this entry level carpentry apprenticeship,” said Angela Clem-Skeans, Director of Operations for Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region. “Skilled construction workers are in high demand in our region and through this program apprentices will be provided on-the-job training with related education, preparing them to advance their career in the construction trades.”

Northwest Michigan Works! is a registered US Department of Labor apprenticeship intermediary and sponsor. Northwest Michigan Works! helps employers develop, implement, and manage registered apprenticeships specific to their industry. Registered apprenticeship is a proven training method for businesses to build a talent pipeline of highly skilled, educated workers.