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.


Training received: FCA Telecommunications


Success: Derek’s journey is nothing short of inspiring, a testament to his resilience and determination as he navigated a significant career transition. With sixteen years of military service, Derek stepped into civilian life in July 2023 with a drive to secure stable employment and provide for his family.


His initial pursuit of a position with IBEW hit a roadblock when changes in their interview process shuffled his ranking lower. Undeterred, Derek decided to take proactive measures. Recognizing the value of upskilling, he enrolled in Alaska Works Partnership’s rigorous telecommunications training, a strategic move to bolster his qualifications and perform better in future interviews.


Derek’s commitment bore fruit as he not only completed the training but emerged as a top performer,
ranking within the top 5 of his class. This accomplishment showcased his dedication to self-improvement and ability to excel in unfamiliar domains.


With newfound skills and boosted confidence, Derek faced the IBEW Wireman apprenticeship interview once more. This time, he preparation and determination paid off as he clinched a coveted spot in the program. His transition from a military career to a first-year wireman apprentice highlighted his capacity to adapt to change and seize opportunities with both hands.


In Derek’s success story, we witness the potency of perseverance and continuous learning. His narrative serves as an inspiring example for those navigating career shifts, spotlighting the significance of taking
proactive strides towards one’s aspirations.

Read More Stories
{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Austin Hatten

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Michael Abraham

Michael's journey is a testament to perseverance and ambition. While serving his country in the Army Reserves, he didn't let his commitments deter him from pursuing his dreams. When he wasn't fulfilling his reserve duties, he found employment as a substitute teacher in his hometown of Chefornak, Alaska. Determined to expand his horizons, Michael set […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Women in the Trades – Faces of Success

Elsie NayokpukTraining received: Building Maintenance, Wood Framing, Sheetrock & Taping, Blueprint Reading, Math and Optical Instruments, Power ToolsSuccess: Elsie, passionate about Carpentry, turned to Alaska Works Partnership (AWP) for support. Through AWP, she immersed herself in training, refined her resume, and successfully landed a job at F&E Contracting, contributing to affordable housing for Cook Inlet […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Derek Harris

Training received: FCA Telecommunications Success: Derek’s journey is nothing short of inspiring, a testament to his resilience and determination as he navigated a significant career transition. With sixteen years of military service, Derek stepped into civilian life in July 2023 with a drive to secure stable employment and provide for his family. His initial pursuit […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Faces of Success

Ivan Voronin Training received: Heavy Duty Service Oiler Success: Ivan, a volunteer firefighter, police officer andrescue firefighter at Fairbanks International Airport, also manages his own snow removal and dirt work business. Seeking to enhance his skill set, he enrolled in the Heavy Duty Service Oiler Training with Alaska Works Partnership in August 2023, envisioning improving […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Tanori Perry

Training received: FCA 80-hour Carpentry Training, October 2016 Success: Tanori’s determination and commitment paid off in a big way. After completing the 80-hour Carpentry training with Alaska Works Partnership in 2016, he knew he wanted to expand his skill set beyond his military background. As a devoted family man, he sought to secure a stable […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Kenna Bates

Training received: Heavy and Light Duty Mechanics, Sheetmetal & HVAC, Telecommunications, First Aid / CPR / AED, OSHA-10, Electrical Wiring, Carpentry, Structural Welding, Building Maintenance Success:Kenna initially joined AWP seeking opportunities for career advancement, having been limited to part-time work due to childcare responsibilities. Uncertain about her path, she explored options such as taking training […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Manny Acuna

From student to project manager - Success Story Manny Acuna came to Alaska twenty years ago with the Air Force where he served for 13 years as an egress technician for fighter jets and other military aircraft. He found out about Alaska works through Helmets to Hardhats a year after he transitioned out of the […]

{{brizy_dc_image_alt entityId=
Darren Bunde

Carpentry Apprenticeship Success Darren had been working at a local pizza shop in Anchorage for several 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 […]


Categories: Success Stories

Stay Connected


{{brizy_dc_image_alt imageSrc=

All Female Learning Environment


{{brizy_dc_image_alt imageSrc=

Free Training for Veterans


{{brizy_dc_image_alt imageSrc=

Apprenticeship Works for Alaska's Youth


Take Advantage of Our Free Programs Today

{{brizy_dc_image_alt imageSrc=

Free Construction Training!

Sign Up Now for a Better Future


Alaska Works Partnership offers free, introductory training to get you started on your career in the construction, mining, oil & gas, maritime, and transportation industries.