Plan

Want to know how to become a boilermaker, lineman, iron worker, bricklayer, and more?  Apprenticeships are the "other 4-Year degree" and they are available here: https://miroad2work.org/michigan-apprenticeships/outside-lineman/  For local apprenticeships, visit: https://www.apprenticeship.gov/finder/active-program/listings?searchType=active-programs&search=&location=49431

Michigan Works West Central hosts several programs available to Mason County residents who are looking for job training or retraining leading to a credential.  Whether a youth or an adult, there may be a program for you, like Jobs for Michigan Graduates, WIOA, MiLEAP and more!  Visit your local Michigan Works office at the Lakeshore Resource Network in Ludington, or online: https://www.mwwc.org/

Pennies from Heaven Foundation videos link you to local career opportunities (Mason County and surrounding areas) and information about related credentials:  PFH Playlist: Your Career Here Playlist by Pennies from Heaven 

Designed for High School students to explore West Michigan Manufacturing Careers virtually, this series of videos filmed in 2020 features FloraCraft from Mason County, and many other more regional employers, who explain the culture, career options, and opportunities offered by their companies. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2x7GUZj3KuEGge20-XSUnaaleE7XqvhI

Great short videos and infosheets on Michigan HotJob careers in Electrical Technology, Physicial Therapy Assistant, Dental Hygiene, Carpentry, and more!  https://roadmap2opportunity.org/ 

This foundation focuses on connecting youth to certifications, apprenticeships and careers in the trades, including engineering tech, welding, construction, and precision machining.   https://www.shoprat.org/

Going Pro is based on the idea that it shouldn't take a lifetime to learn before you start to earn! Careers in Health, IT, Automotive, Manufacturing and Construction are the focus of this great resource.  https://www.going-pro.com/

Young people should not have to travel far to prepare for a career, and with CTE, they don't even have to leave Mason County.  Check out the videos that relate to careers in which CTE can get high school students on a path to a career credential even before they graduate!  https://www.wsesd.org/page/career-and-technical-education

Michigan's Economic Development Corporation is focused on developing Michigan's workforce for the benefit of those who live and work in Michigan.  Check out their YouTube channel's playlist related to skilled trades--You'll be surprised at the diversity of offerings.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsufrF4K_7o&list=PLnd4jjRa4RAbB5Wfc2PE516ChjiiRi22X 

College is one way, but not the only way to a credentialed career. Post-secondary credentials include traditional degrees and certifications through colleges and non-traditional training and credentialing through employers.  Michigan Works Training Connect is a great way to find resources to build your career post-secondary pathway through non-traditional means.   https://www.mitalent.org/mitc