PONTIAC, Mich., Sept. 2, 2025 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) announced today a groundbreaking partnership to launch a free pre-apprenticeship program that will open doors to careers in the skilled trades for residents of Pontiac, Waterford Township and Auburn Hills.
This partnership brings together respected community leaders and workforce champions, including Carlton Jones of the Talent Development Coalition, Ricky Sherrell of the National Construction Awareness Academy, Jermaine Branner of Perry Street Empowerment, Rick Michaels of the nonprofit arm of the AFL-CIO, community leader Sinda Mills and Randy Carter, longtime advocate and partner in service.
“This is more than a program — it is a promise,” Carter said. “For too long, our communities have been overlooked when it comes to opportunities in the trades. This partnership ensures that our residents are first in line for training that leads to real careers, real wages and real stability.”
Upcoming Dates:
Tuesday, Sept. 2, at 4 p.m. – Introduction to the program on Microsoft Teams
Friday, Sept. 12, at 10 a.m. – WHPR TV show to discuss program details
Friday, Sept. 19, at 4 p.m. (Tentative) – Program rollout at the Bowen Center
Saturday, Sept. 20, – Program recruitment at the 2025 Soul Fest in Galloway Park
Oct. 2025 (TBA, based on recruitment numbers) – First cohort begins
The program, offered at no cost to participants, will provide training, mentorship and direct access to union apprenticeship opportunities. Registration is open now through the Michigan Workforce Development Institute at miwdi.org.
“This partnership is historic because it unites education, labor and community leadership under one goal: empowering families,” Carter added. “It’s about giving our young people and adults a pathway to success right here at home.”
For more information about the pre-apprenticeship program, please contact Representative Carter’s office at (517) 373-2577 or [email protected].
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