Workforce development agency recognized at the White House

Nov 7

West Michigan Works! was honored at the White House on October 23 for its leadership in promoting and expanding Registered Apprenticeships. As part of the ceremony, West Michigan Works! Apprenticeships Project Manager Joel Elsenbroek participated in a panel discussion on the future of apprenticeships and received a Certificate of Recognition from the U.S. Department of Labor, presented by John Ladd, Administrator of the department’s Office of Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are paid work experiences that combine on-the-job and classroom learning. West Michigan Works! currently holds standards for 52 U.S. Labor Department-registered apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing, construction, healthcare, information technology, and professional services. The workforce development agency collaborates with 102 West Michigan employers, supporting 276 active apprentices.

"Participating in the White House ceremony was an incredible opportunity to showcase the impactful work happening in West Michigan," Elsenbroek said. "Apprenticeship is a proven tool for creating a skilled workforce, improving productivity, and reducing turnover. We are proud to be recognized for our commitment to helping West Michigan employers develop and manage Registered Apprenticeship Programs."

Since the Apprenticeship Ambassador program's inception in 2022, West Michigan Works! has been a key partner in the U.S. Labor Department’s ambassador network, contributing to national efforts to enhance partnerships, develop talent pipelines, and promote diversity and inclusion. In the past two years, the agency has developed 15 new programs in high-demand occupations.

West Michigan Works! partners with employers interested in establishing a Registered Apprenticeship Program, managing administrative tasks such as securing occupation approval, collaborating with local community colleges and training providers to develop tailored curricula, and registering apprentices with the U.S. Labor Department.

The construction industry has seen significant activity recently, with West Michigan Works! adding seven new employers to its standards, now totaling 16 employers and 95 apprentices. The agency has also introduced four new occupations: chimney technician, commercial interior carpenter, construction craft laborer and glazier.

For more information about apprenticeship opportunities in West Michigan, job seekers and employers can visit https://www.westmiworks.org/apprenticeships.