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March 01, 2025
At the heart of Detroit, Michigan, the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) has transformed its Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) into a nationally recognized, award-winning initiative that supports apprentices and enriches the community.
GLWA’s RAP has offered opportunities in a variety of occupations, including:
GLWA partners with local educational and union organizations to ensure apprentices receive comprehensive training and support, including Focus: HOPE, Macomb Community College, Henry Ford College, the American Federation of State, Municipal, and County Employees (AFSCME) Union and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), to name a few. GLWA also works closely with community partners who provide grant funding to help remove barriers to apprentice employment. These partners include Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC), Oakland County Michigan Works!, and Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA).
GLWA's commitment to community outreach includes visiting high schools and introducing them to potential career opportunities in skilled trades and STEM fields. Even if students do not join GLWA, they are still equipped with valuable knowledge for their future careers.
The success of GLWA's RAP has not gone unnoticed. The program has received numerous accolades, including:
Some of GLWA's RAP success is witnessed through dedication to mentorship and continuous learning. Subject Matter Experts work closely with apprentices, offering tutoring and personalized support to assist apprentices on their journey. The program emphasizes the importance of a two-way learning process, where both apprentices and mentors teach and learn from each other.
GLWA celebrates the small wins and acknowledges the hard work of its apprentices and mentors, building strong relationships and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. With organization-wide wellness initiatives like the men's and women’s health groups and a young professionals’ network, GLWA ensures that apprentices have access to a supportive network.