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.


Carpentry Apprenticeship Success

Darren had been working at a local pizza shop in Anchorage for years when he realized he wanted a career change. Despite having no previous experience in construction trades, he decided to take a chance and enroll in the Alaska Works Carpentry 1 program. Little did he know, this decision would change his life forever.

He quickly found that he had a natural talent for carpentry, and he was ranked #1 in his class.

The Alaska Works Carpentry 1 program helped Darren gain a solid foundation in the trade. He learned how to read blueprints, measure and cut materials, and build structures from the ground up. Through hands-on training, he also learned how to use a variety of power tools and became proficient in safety procedures.

After completing the course, Darren applied for the Carpenters Apprenticeship program and was thrilled to be accepted.

Darren credits the Alaska Works Carpentry 1 program for giving him the confidence and skills he needed to succeed in his apprenticeship. "The classes have helped me understand more of the trade and what is involved. It’s amazing that Alaskan carpenters build everything from dirt to doorknobs," he says.

Read More Stories
Elijah Watts
Elijah Watts transitioned from a customer service job to carpentry after watching the construction of a skate park. He excels as a first-year apprentice in the Carpenters' apprenticeship in Fairbanks, showing that perseverance and hard work can lead to achieving goals. Elijah's success as an apprentice highlights the value of apprenticeships and the impact they can have on an individual's career.
 Kaden Blevins
Kaden, a high school student from Eagle River, AK, discovered his passion for plumbing through a free training program offered by the Alaska Works Partnership and Anchorage School District. After excelling in the 40-hour training, Kaden applied and was accepted into the Plumbers and Steamfitters apprenticeship program, where he will continue his education and training while working in the field.
Jaclyn Johnson
Jaclyn’s journey towards a fulfilling career is a 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.
Cameryn Olson
Cameryn Olson, a determined nineteen-year-old, pursued her passion for operating heavy equipment despite facing obstacles. After completing a 40-hour training program, she applied and was accepted into the Alaska Operating Engineers’ apprenticeship program. She is currently loving the training and is on track for a bright career as a heavy equipment operator.
Philip Andrew Career success
Philip Andrew
Born and raised in the village of New Stuyahok, Alaska, he discovered his love for construction and pursued a career in the trades. Through hard work and dedication, Philip has gained valuable skills, and his well-rounded experience has made him a sought-after candidate in his field. Despite the challenges he's faced, Philip has remained focused on providing for his family and ensuring a brighter future for his six sons.
Emily Campbell
Emily is almost done with her two weeks of CDL training and is currently in week six out of eleven for heavy equipment operating training with the Operating Engineers Local 302. She's been doing great in her training and has already learned how to operate heavy machinery such as a scraper, excavator, and road grader. Plus, she's also picked up the skill of grade-checking. Read more to learn about her inspiring journey.
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