From Apprentice to Foreman: The ROI of Registered Apprenticeship in Action

When employers consider Registered Apprenticeship Programs, the goal is often to find reliable, skilled workers. However, the story of Nathan of Payne & Dolan and Operating Engineers 324 demonstrates these programs do far more than just fill entry-level roles—they cultivate the next generation of leadership.

Nathan’s trajectory at Payne & Dolan is a masterclass in the value of "growing your own" talent. Remarkably, Nathan earned a foreman position for two out of the three years of his training. This rapid advancement was fueled by his unwavering punctuality—arriving on time for every class and every shift—and his ability to immediately apply classroom knowledge to the job site.

For employers, Nathan represents the ultimate Return On Investment: a registered apprentice who not only learns the trade but master’s the leadership skills necessary to manage a crew before his graduation date.

In the heavy equipment and construction industry, technical skills are only as valuable as the safety record that accompanies it. Nathan consistently sets the gold standard for site safety by:

• Maintaining rigorous PPE standards and conducting thorough equipment inspections.
• Remaining alert to hazards and exercising the initiative to stop work if unsafe conditions arise.
• Organizing tasks and motivating team members to reach group goals without compromising safety or quality.

Beyond his work with Payne & Dolan and Operating Engineers 324, Nathan embodies a spirit of service. He has dedicated countless hours to volunteering at general membership meetings and outreach events, including the Michigan Construction Career Days. His commitment to the industry ensures the talent pipeline he traveled through remains strong for those coming behind him.

For these reasons and many others, Nathan was the recipient of the 2025 MASCI Excellence in Apprenticeship Award for Construction, a testament to his dedication, skill and professional growth.

Nathan is proof that when an employer invests in a Registered Apprenticeship, they aren't just hiring a trainee—they are developing an asset that will lead, protect and grow the company for years to come