New Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Brings Jobs, Training to Region

Northwest Michigan Works! in partnership with Manthei Construction officially launched the region's first U.S. Department of Labor registered diesel mechanic apprenticeship on December 11, 2025. The certification means the program follows federal apprenticeship standards and carries the formal backing of the U.S. Department of Labor, positioning participating apprentices to gain recognized credentials while training with a local employer.

The apprenticeship requires 6,000 hours of on the job training under experienced Manthei mentors and 432 hours of online coursework through Penn Foster. Employer provided proprietary classes will supplement the Penn Foster curriculum to deepen technical knowledge in diesel service skills. The program is structured as a three year training pathway. Altogether the program combines 6,432 hours of instruction and supervised work, which averages about 2,144 hours per year for apprentices engaged in the full program.

Apprentices and organizers say the program links classroom learning with paid work experience. Apprentice Zachary Piechan remarked on enjoying welding classes and looking forward to the three year program. Shauna Sutton, HR and Payroll Manager at Manthei Construction, expressed gratitude for the partnership and expanding U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship opportunities in the region. Evelyn Szpliet, Regional Director of Apprenticeship Services, said Northwest Michigan Works! is proud to sponsor Manthei and Zach and to expand registered apprenticeship occupations in the region for progressive employers.

For Grand Traverse County residents the apprenticeship creates a local pipeline to a skilled occupation that typically requires technical training and hands on experience. Employers gain a predictable source of trained workers and a platform to transfer proprietary methods directly to new hires. Northwest Michigan Works! provides technical assistance and administrative support for apprenticeship development, implementation and program management.

Residents interested in the registered apprenticeship program can find more information at nwm.org/apprenticeships. The launch marks a notable expansion of employer led training in the region and a concrete option for residents seeking career entry into diesel service and heavy equipment maintenance.