101 students honored in Michigan Career and Technical Institute’s summer/fall graduation ceremony

MCTI’s student-focused approach results in postsecondary success for individuals with disabilities

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) hosted its summer/fall graduation ceremony Thursday, celebrating 101 students who successfully completed in-demand training programs and earned credentials that will help them access competitive, integrated employment opportunities.

MCTI — the second-largest vocational rehabilitation training center in the country — held the ceremony at its main campus in Plainwell.

“We’re committed to providing opportunities for all Michiganders to lead fulfilling, self-sufficient lives, and Michigan Career and Technical Institute plays an important role in helping us expand those opportunities,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Employment and Training. “MCTI training programs empower individuals with disabilities. Graduates leave MCTI well-prepared to join the workforce, equipped with the technical expertise and employability skills essential for success in today’s economy.”

Three graduating students and five current students were named recipients of MCTI’s prestigious Honor Award. Since 1973, the award has been presented to students who have made outstanding contributions to the school, contributed to the success of their fellow students and individual classrooms, and shown significant growth during their time at MCTI.

Graduate student recipients of MCTI’s Honor Award were Robert Sorah and Dale Hrymecki of Clinton County (both earned certifications in Machine Technology) and Trevor Sandborn of Kent County (Cabinetmaking/Millwork). Sandborn was selected to give the Student Address during the commencement ceremony.

All five current student recipients of the Honor Award are enrolled in MCTI’s Commercial Printing program, including Ryan Cousineau of Newaygo County, Savannah Koning of Barry County, Owen Mendel of Alpena County, Donovan Shaw of Berrien County and Jacob Steinert of Wayne County.

“These students embody the dedication, hard work and resilience our staff strives to instill in our students each and every day,” said Jennifer Fechter, MCTI Career and Technical Education Manager. “We’re excited for the bright futures that lie ahead for each of them.”

MCTI promotes the integration of Michiganders with disabilities into both the competitive workplace and society. Students at MCTI’s Plainwell campus may enroll in one of 12 technical training programs, including automotive technology, cabinetmaking/millwork, certified nurse assistant, commercial printing, culinary arts, custodial, grounds maintenance/landscaping, industrial electronics, information technology, machine technology, pharmacy technician and retail marketing.

Each training program is supported by an active advisory committee made up of people who work in that industry and help ensure the school’s curriculum and equipment meet business standards and needs. MCTI offers students health, psychological and social work services, sports and activities, housing, student government and much more.

MCTI also has extension campuses in Benton Harbor and Kalamazoo where students receive Certified Nursing Assistant training, as well as an extension campus in Fowlerville that provides training in culinary arts. The school is a division of Michigan Rehabilitation Services within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

Learn more about the Michigan Career and Technical Institute by visiting Michigan.gov/MCTI.