With drive, determination and leadership, operating engineer is honored as Michigan’s 2024 Apprentice of the Year

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Michigan Apprentice Steering Committee, Inc. (MASCI) has recognized Operating Engineer Mason Hart as Michigan’s 2024 Construction Apprentice of the Year, celebrating his exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to the skilled trades. The award was presented at the MASCI Winter 2024 Award Ceremony, held in Grand Rapids at the Kent Career Tech Center.

Hart, a member of Operating Engineers 324 (OE324), turned his passion for heavy machinery into a thriving career, seizing every opportunity to excel. “I love working with heavy machinery, and I especially like being on job sites operating cranes because I get to do something I love and get paid great money at the same time,” said Hart. “I’ve already had the chance to work on incredible projects like the Gordie Howe International Bridge, and it’s exciting to know my work will be around for generations.”

Hart’s journey into the skilled trades began with a pivotal visit to OE324’s state-of-the-art Construction Career Center in Howell during his senior year at Livonia-Franklin High School in 2020. “When I saw the heavy machinery, I knew immediately that I wanted to become an Operating Engineer,” he recalled. “The best part of the apprenticeship was earning while learning. At 23 years old, I own a home, a truck, and a great career. I know I made the right decision!”

Determined to maximize his training, Hart accelerated his coursework, completing the four-year apprenticeship in just three years. His early work on the Gordie Howe International Bridge provided hands-on experience operating loaders, excavators, skid steers, and cranes as part of the Bridging North America construction team. He now works at Capital City Group as an oiler and crane operator, handling 55-ton, 165-ton, and 360-ton all-terrain cranes, as well as 110-ton truck cranes. Capital City Group, a leading provider of crane rental services across the Midwest, specializes in lifting solutions for various construction and infrastructure projects.

“Here at the JATF, selecting an Apprentice of the Year is never easy,” said Brad Ryznar, OE324 Hoisting and Portable Apprentice Coordinator. “However, Mason’s trainability, skill set, leadership, and dedication to our trade made him a standout choice. It was an honor to support his journey—his positive attitude and willingness to learn are second to none.”

MASCI Trustee and State Apprenticeship Expansion Analyst Wanda Bigelow echoed this sentiment: “In a year with many exceptional candidates, Mason’s leadership, dedication to learning, and drive set him apart as MASCI’s 2024 Construction Apprentice of the Year. According to his employer, Mason exhibits those qualities daily, both in the classroom and on the job site. We are excited to watch him continue building Michigan’s future.”

OE324 Business Manager Douglas Stockwell praised the commitment of apprentices like Hart. “Our apprentices take real pride in their work, striving to be the best professionals in the construction field. Mason exemplifies the Operating Engineers’ commitment to excellence, safety, and craftsmanship, and we couldn’t be prouder of his achievements.”

OE324’s apprenticeship program is a 6,000-hour program, including 600 hours of classroom instruction. Apprenticeships follow an “earn while you learn” model, providing competitive wages, benefits, and career advancement opportunities. The program is a partnership funded jointly by OE324 and its employer partners, ensuring members receive cutting-edge training and remain highly sought after in the industry.

MASCI is a collaborative organization that brings together businesses, labor organizations, government agencies, educators, policymakers, and the public to promote registered apprenticeship programs across Michigan.

To learn more, visit www.oe324.org.