Alaska Works Partnership, Success Stories

Read our inspiring stories about students who have taken advantage of our programs and services at Alaska Works Partnership. Be sure to reach out to us if you have any questions. We're ready to help you start your career in the construction trades today.


Telecom Apprenticeship Success

Jaclyn’s journey towards a fulfilling career is a great testament to the impact that Alaska Works Partnership (AWP) can have on individuals. In just a few interactions, AWP staff were able to introduce Jaclyn to the world of construction training and the opportunities available to her. This led her to apply for and complete telecommunications training in both Anchorage and Wasilla, where she discovered her passion and talent for the craft.

But AWP’s impact on Jaclyn didn’t stop there. Her IBEW Telecom instructor volunteered his time to help her polish up on her math and trade skills, and AWP staff provided case management and interview preparation to ensure she had everything aligned to be a strong candidate prior to applying to the IBEW. Thanks to all of this support, Jackie was immediately accepted into the IBEW’s Telecommunications apprenticeship, and she is now working as an Outside Telecommunications Lineman at MTA Solutions in Wasilla.

Jaclyn’s success story demonstrates how AWP is not just a job training program, but a comprehensive support system for individuals seeking meaningful careers. Through AWP, individuals can access training and education opportunities, career counseling, job placement assistance, and ongoing support and resources to ensure their success in their chosen field. The organization’s investment in Jaclyn’s success speaks to its commitment to providing individuals with the tools they need to achieve their goals and build a better future for themselves and their families.

Jaclyn’s experience with AWP highlights the importance of job training and career development programs in creating pathways to success for individuals who may not have had access to these opportunities otherwise. With the right support and resources, individuals can achieve their career aspirations and build fulfilling lives for themselves and their communities. Programs like AWP play a vital role in creating these opportunities and promoting economic mobility for individuals and families across Alaska.

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Caden Estrada

Caden had a clear vision for his future while still in high school—he wanted a successful career in the skilled trades. Intrigued by the possibilities   within the electrical field, he knew that hands-on work and a strong foundation in math were crucial to his goals. In 2021, while still in high school, Caden took a  […]

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Cody Butkiewicz

After a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, Cody Butkiewicz was ready for a new direction. Seeking a fulfilling career in the trades, he completed the Veterans Electrical Entry Program (VEEP) and set his sights on joining the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). To further prepare  himself, Cody partnered with Alaska Works Partnership, where […]

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Gary Chin

Gary’s journey towards becoming an electrician began with the electrical pre-apprenticeship program he completed through Alaska Works Partnership in November 2017. That initial training set the stage for a rewarding career in the electrical field, laying a strong foundation in the skills and confidence he needed to progress. Fast forward to November 2023, when Gary […]

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Helmajean Akerelrea

Hilmajean Akerelrea’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of career education. After graduating from the Career Education Center, Hilmajean was at a crossroads. She was working as a manager at Sonic but wasn’t sure about her long-term career path. Her uncertainty shifted when she enrolled in Alaska Works Partnership’s electrical wiring and power tools training courses. […]

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Jennifer Boyer

Jenn began her career in heavy equipment with Healy Lake Village Council as an expeditor, where she sourced and managed supplies, oversaw financial submissions, and managed grants. She later took on the role of foreman for a landfill project, leading a team of seven, ensuring safety protocols were followed, and completing the project successfully. Her […]

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John Calhoun

John’s passion for the electrical trade began in high school, where he set his sights on a career in the industry. Eager to get a head start, he signed up for courses with Alaska Works Partnership to gain hands-on skills and technical knowledge. He completed classes in Telecommunications, Electrical Wiring, First Aid, and OSHA 10 […]

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Mason Jefferies

Mason’s story with Alaska Works Partnership began in 2014, when he participated in the Rigging and Hand Signal training. This initial exposure to foundational trade skills sparked his interest in electrical work, and after completing the training, he applied to the IBEW Inside Wireman apprenticeship program. With commitment and hard work, Mason stayed in the […]

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Jacob Buzby

Jacob Buzby's Journey to Becoming a Journeyman Operator Jacob Buzby’s career path began in early 2020, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and a few months before his 18th birthday. He had a clear goal: to pursue a career in construction. Referred to Alaska Works, Jacob wasted no time and enrolled in the […]

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Youth Apprenticeship – Faces of Success:

Noah SwitzerTraining received: Building Maintenance and Telecommunications Success: Noah engaged in several educational opportunities offered by Alaska Works, immersing himself in various courses to explore his interests and develop his skills. However, it was during his enrollment in the Telecommunications class that he experienced a significant breakthrough. Within the span of just six months, Noah's […]


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