Apprenticeship Training Program Recognizes Carpentry and Information Technology Graduates

By Chris Picciuolo

On January 13, 10 graduates of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community’s Apprenticeship Training Program were recognized for their hard work and dedication to reaching Journeyman status in the fields of carpentry and information technology.

The event was held at the Courtyard by Marriott Scottsdale on tribal land and was well attended by families and supporters of the graduates. Representing SRPMIC leadership were President Martin Harvier, Vice-President Ricardo Leonard, and Council members Cheryl Doka and Jacob Butler.

Workforce Development Manager James Smith welcomed all in attendance. Serving as master of ceremonies was Public Works employee Arlo Manuel, a heavy equipment journeyman graduate of the program in 2017.

President Harvier and Vice-President Leonard took a moment to congratulate all Apprenticeship Program graduates and spoke to them about the sometimes-difficult journeys Apprenticeship graduates take in their careers.

“I know for some of you it’s a tough decision to change careers,” said Harvier. “I know it was probably difficult during the COVID time to continue to reach these goals you have met today. I encourage you to continue to set goals in your life and continue to grow. I think the opportunity that you have in this Apprenticeship Program really gives you a door that gets opened to work in your Community.”

Manuel and 2016 computer operator journeyman Matthew King were also the honorary guest speakers. Salt River Landfill CEO Rich Allen, chair of the Apprenticeship Committee, offered special remarks to the graduates.

Mark Kite, the managing director of Training to You, was given a special award for his partnership with the SRPMIC Apprenticeship Program for the last six years and for his work with three of the Community’s apprenticeship trades.

The apprentices were presented with gifts and journeyman certificates by Apprenticeship staff and SRPMIC leadership.

Congratulations to all SRPMIC Apprenticeship Training Program graduates!