Schoolcraft College introduces new masonry trade program

In a new move, Schoolcraft College has joined in a public/private agreement with the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 2, and the Michigan Community College Association, as well as Michigan’s Labor and Economic Development Office (or LEO). Together the group is creating a one of a kind model for workforce development moving forward. The new program combines a student’s experience and apprenticeship training into college credit toward an associate degree at one of 24 community colleges in Michigan.

Students who finish these Registered Apprenticeship Programs in the building trades will be able to earn college credit for their work. Through this model, apprentices in the workforce who enroll in the program will be able to take advantage of services like student wellness services, advising, and tutoring, all while training in their field and gaining hands-on experience alongside classroom learning. Livonia, Michigan based Schoolcraft College is the first school to opt into this new collaboration.

In an article posted on Schoolcraft College’s website, Susan Corbin who serves as the director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Development was quoted about the program, saying, “We believe the MI-CCAP agreement is one of the first in the country to facilitate a transfer agreement to union workers. I thank Schoolcraft College President Dr. Glenn Cerny for leading the way to early adoption of this program. This program enables past, current, and future apprentices to earn college credit for their on-the-job training. It opens doors to degrees and certifications that strengthen careers, support employers, and build a skilled, adaptable workforce across Michigan.”

There is already a dual enrollment program for high school students that allows them to enroll in the program. Students who do so will be able to graduate from high school with their diploma, and move right into an apprenticeship, where they will be able to earn credits toward their college degree.

Brett Gierak is the president of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union Local 2 of Michigan. He spoke highly of the partnership, saying, “This partnership is one more tool for us to recruit and train union workers and leaders. The program is an opportunity for our workers to continue their education without having to start over.”

MCCA President Brandy Johnson said, “By awarding college credit for apprenticeship, we are creating clear pathways for apprentices to further their education, gain additional skills and advance their careers to build a stronger workforce and support local employers.”

This model is beneficial to both Schoolcraft College and the Bricklayers Union as they collaborate on this new partnership that is partially funded by Congressionally Directed Spending, which was sponsored by LEO and Senator Gary Peters.

Cerny spoke positively about the agreement and its benefits for students, saying, “This agreement is meeting learners where they are and moving them forward statewide. Hands-on training while earning credit for this experience is vital to their successes. We look forward to welcoming these workers to Schoolcraft College as they continue their education and grow their skills.”

The Schoolcraft College Foundation also assisted in the support of the program, as well as acquiring funding for the partnership with the goal of providing more opportunities for Michigan residents to attain jobs that pay a living wage while also allowing for an educational roadmap for future careers if students desire.

More information about Schoolcraft College can be found at the school’s website.