Celebrating Ohio’s 2024 Apprenticeship Graduates
COLUMBUS, OH — In the heartland of America, where hard work and craftsmanship are deeply rooted in tradition, the Central Midwest Carpenters Union recently celebrated the graduation of a cohort of skilled apprentices in Ohio. On February 17th, 2024, 355 members celebrated their achievement with friends, coworkers, and family.
The event included a presentation of camo-colored hardhats to the graduating apprentices that entered through the Helmets to Hardhats veteran and active service program. The attendees heard from speakers including Ohio Carpenters’ Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program’s Director of Education Dan Sustin, State Senator Michael Rulli, graduate speaker Austin Clipping, and Central Midwest Carpenters Executive Secretary-Treasurer Matt McGriff.
The graduation ceremony was not just a culmination but a new beginning. The apprenticeship program prepares members not only for their job but for a lifelong career as mentors. Journeymen and women are mentors to the next generation of apprentices, a big responsibility for the future of our organization.
“As the new class of apprentices starts their journey behind you, remember where you came from. Be that teacher, that mentor on the jobsite, and at your local to help them achieve their goal,” EST McGriff told the graduates.
As these graduates return to their jobsites, they will work alongside apprentices, some going through the same challenges the graduates overcame in their four-year time as apprentices. It is up to all of us to support, encourage, and motivate through mentorship—on and off the job. We’re confident this new class of journey-level Carpenters will live up to these expectations.
The Central Midwest Carpenters Union’s apprenticeship graduation in Ohio was more than a ceremony; it was a celebration of experience, skill, and the enduring spirit of hard work. To all 2024 carpenter, millwright, and piledriver graduating apprentices: congratulations on your big achievement! Your future is looking bright.
To view the full index of photos including graduates on stage, please visit this link.
