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.


Apprenticeship Success

Meet Trinity Nusbaum, a young woman who has already made great strides in her career as a carpenter. Trinity's journey began after high school, where she worked in coffee shops and gyms, establishing a good work ethic, but craving a new challenge. That challenge came in the form of exploring the construction trades through Alaska Works Partnership, where Trinity completed over 120 hours of training in electrical, telecommunications, carpentry, and CPR.

With her new skills, Trinity landed a job with Arctic Solar Ventures, where she worked on a solar panel installation project through Cook Inlet Housing Authority, doubling her usual wage and expanding her knowledge in the field. It was here that Trinity found a new enthusiasm for carpentry, prompting her to apply for the Carpenters' apprenticeship, which she was accepted into with great excitement.

Trinity's level of enthusiasm for continuing her education while working in a stable career is second-to-none. She understands that longevity and success are two main ingredients of her future in the industrial trades.

Trinity's apprenticeship in the carpentry trade is a great step forward for her career, and it is a testament to the benefits of vocational training and apprenticeships. These programs offer a unique opportunity to gain practical skills and hands-on experience in a specific trade, while also earning a wage and benefits.

Moreover, Trinity's story is an inspiration to other young women who may be interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades. She is breaking barriers and proving that women can excel in these fields, which have traditionally been male-dominated.

In conclusion, Trinity Nusbaum's success in starting her apprenticeship in the carpentry trade is a remarkable achievement that should be celebrated. Her journey shows the power of hard work, and the opportunities that vocational training and apprenticeships can offer. Trinity's enthusiasm and dedication will undoubtedly lead her to even greater success in the future, and her story will inspire others to pursue their dreams in the skilled trades.

Read More Stories
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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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