Ohio’s Newest Journey-Level Carpenters: Class of 2025
COLUMBUS, OH — On February 15th, 2025, the Central Midwest Carpenters Union celebrated 354 apprentices in Ohio who put in the hours, learned their trade, and earned their spot as journey-level members. They marked the occasion with friends, family, and the union brothers and sisters who had their backs along the way.
A highlight from the evening included the presentation of camo-colored hardhats to the graduating veteran, active, and reserve status apprentices in the United States Armed Forces. This segment highlights the Helmets to Hardhats program that offers those service members direct-entry into the construction trades. Attendees also heard from speakers including Ohio Carpenters’ Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program’s Director of Education Dan Sustin, graduate speaker Seth Hiser, and Central Midwest Carpenters Executive Secretary-Treasurer Matt McGriff.
“If you set your goals ahead of you, and with the help of your brothers and sisters supporting you… I have no doubt that you can and will achieve them,” EST McGriff told the graduates.
As these new journey-level carpenters, millwrights, and piledrivers step into the next phase of their careers, their responsibilities extend beyond the job site. Mentorship remains a cornerstone of the trade, ensuring that future apprentices receive the same guidance and support that helped shape today’s graduates.
The 2025 apprenticeship graduation was more than a milestone—it was a recognition of skill, dedication, and the continued strength of the industry. The Central Midwest Carpenters congratulates all graduates on their achievement and looks forward to their contributions to the trade’s future.
To view the full index of photos including graduates on stage, please visit this link.
