Labor-Management Education Committee – Lee Graham, Fall 2024
With summer rapidly coming to an end and the fall season right around the corner, we would like to quickly recap a few great things we have been a part of over the last few months.
The 6th Annual American Cancer Society Big Dig was hosted at the Operating Engineers 324 Construction Career Center in Howell on July 13th. Nearly 550 children of all ages enjoyed a hands-on and immersive introduction to the construction industry and science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Children operated heavy equipment with the help of skilled volunteers and took part in construction-themed crafts, demonstrations, and activities in the name of a good cause. Money raised at the Big Dig went to support the American Cancer Society’s work in pediatric cancer research. With amazing supporters and industry partners, over $150,000 was raised in the fight against childhood cancer! With the charitable monies raised, awareness was given to the event and the organization to showcase their mission – Construction vs Cancer. The smiles on the faces of the many participants were priceless, and OE324 was honored to host such an amazing event.
On August 11th & 12th, Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee (MASCI) partnered with Executive Director Mike Smith with the Upper Peninsula Construction Council (UPCC) to host the annual MASCI Industry Reception and MASCI Membership Meeting. Special guests were in attendance included Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) Director Susan Corbin, Opportunity Administrative Manager Apprenticeship Expansion, Scott Jedele, Opportunity Infrastructure Liaison, Eric Keller, Helmets to Hardhats Michigan State Director Sam Dougherty, Michigan Department of Education and Office of Career & Technical Education Director Dr. Brian Pyles, USDOL-OA Michigan State Director Tiffanie Clawson and Launch Michigan President/CEO Vanessa Keesler.
This year, OE324 was able to participate once again with the Upper Peninsula Construction Council (UPCC) Building Trades Summer Camp. The UPCC, with signatory contractors and trades, Delta-Schoolcraft ISD, Marquette-Alger RESA and UP Michigan Works!, were able to hold a paid six-week summer camp for 24 incoming high school students (freshmen through seniors) from the Iron Mountain area to take part in construction activities. The camp ran from July 8th through August 14th. The camp allowed the students the opportunity to learn invaluable skills to help them jumpstart their career or future training/education after graduating high school.
This summer, Operating Engineers 324 was given the opportunity to partner with the Great Lakes Super Sprints racing organization and Onaway Speedway (Great Lakes Big Rig Challenge & Over the Top Diesel Showdown). These sponsorships allowed us to spread the word to race fans, pit crew members, and anyone else that stopped by to learn more about various career opportunities that exist as a Heavy Equipment Technician or a Heavy Equipment Operator. These events were a great success that resulted in excellent recognition of our organization.
Operating Engineers 324 will be honored with an award at the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)’s Race to Talent event on November 13th for our support of Helmets to Hardhats, veterans and our apprenticeship training model. This award serves as a testament to our commitment to provide valuable training and opportunities for growth, which sets a high standard for others to follow.
Operating Engineers 324 was given an opportunity to sponsor the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) conference and the Enlisted Association Nation Guard of the United States (EANGUS) conference as they both were hosted in the Michigan for the first time. The opportunity allowed us the chance to speak to leadership of Army National Guard & Air National Guard about Helmets to Hardhats and our apprenticeship/organization.
These great efforts help encourage the Operating Engineers of tomorrow and let communities know all the work we are doing daily – to build, to operate, to maintain, and to give back. Have a great fall season and stay safe!
Lee Graham
Treasurer
Executive Director
Labor-Management Education Committee