A conversation turns into a lasting career via Registered Apprenticeship

Building a strong and lasting foundation in the Construction Building Trades takes a rare combination of unwavering dedication, meticulous craftsmanship, and natural leadership. Among the 650 registered apprentices currently training across the state, second-year bricklayer Collin stands out as a truly exceptional example of what it means to excel in the field and set a higher standard for the industry.

Representing the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 2 of Michigan, Collin began his registered apprenticeship journey on May 6, 2024, and has since established a remarkable reputation for excellence that has quickly caught the attention of both his instructors and his employer.

Before finding his calling in the trades, Collin spent time working in restaurant and retail management. Though he enjoyed aspects of the work, a layoff just a month before his wedding made it clear that he needed to build a true, long-term career. During that pivotal transitional period, he reached out to family friend Sam Dougherty, State Director for Helmets to Hardhats, for guidance.

Sam encouraged him to look into a construction trades registered apprenticeship and pointed him toward the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 2 of Michigan. Collin applied, was accepted, and began his journey as a laborer with an "intent to hire," spending a full year proving his dedication before officially starting his apprenticeship.

His enthusiasm for the craft has been evident from day one, leading him to remark that his only regret is not starting sooner. What truly sets Collin apart day in and day out is his unwavering commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. He is never satisfied with simply doing enough to get by; instead, he dives deep into the technical aspects of masonry.

Beyond mastering his own trade requirements, he consistently goes out of his way to support, guide and mentor fellow registered apprentices. Whether it is helping a classmate troubleshoot a difficult technique or sharing his knowledge on the job site, Collin is always willing to lift others up and help them succeed.

His exceptional work ethic, drive and daily motivation have earned glowing reviews from his contractor, serving as a true testament to his exceptionally high standards and deep pride in his craftsmanship. Every wall he builds reflects care, precision and respect for the materials and the trade.

In fact, Collin’s extraordinary dedication has been recognized in a very tangible way – he earned above-scale pay for the entirety of his time in the field, a rare achievement that speaks volumes about the incredible value he brings to every job site.

When asked what advice he would give to others considering this path, Collin encourages anyone interested in a construction trades registered apprenticeship to “reach out and explore what each trade has to offer.” Most importantly, his advice is simple: “don't wait and get on a job site to start gaining hands-on experience.”

Polite, respectful and always willing to go above and beyond in everything that he does, Collin represents the absolute best of Michigan's future workforce and the enduring strength of the union building trades.