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.


Noah Switzer
Training received: Building Maintenance & 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 journey of self-discovery and professional growth led him to apply and be accepted into the IBEW as a telecommunications technician. He embraced his role within the IBEW and is poised to make a meaningful impact in the telecommunications industry.

Gabriel Browner
Training received: ACA Ironwork & Welding, MCA OSHA-10

Success: Straight out of high school to a welding fabrication job, Gabriel knew he wanted to make a career in the welding trades. After completing a 40-hour Ironwork & Welding training, he followed it up with a 10-hour OSHA certification.

With a good sense of the hands-on responsibilities of an Ironworker, Gabriel applied to the Ironworkers’ apprenticeship program where he was interviewed and accepted. He is excited about his new career and looks forward to getting to work.

Asher Wells
Training received: FCA Intro to Plumbing and Pipefitting, FCA Welding

Success: From the halls of high school to the bustling world of plumbing and pipefitting, Asher's trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable.

Fueled by a thirst for knowledge, he started his journey with Alaska Works Partnership (AWP) as a curious student, eager to explore the trades. With each training session attended Asher honed his skills and fortified his determination, laying the groundwork for a promising future.

When the opportunity to join the Plumbers and Pipefitters apprenticeship presented itself, Asher seized it, impressing interviewers with his passion and work ethic. He was offered a position as a first-year apprentice and will be going to work this summer. 

Logan Shane
Training received: MCA Carpentry

Success: Logan worked on a farm as he completed high school. The work was satisfying, but Logan wanted a more trade-related career. Finishing a 40-hour training in carpentry, Logan went straight into the construction arena, working for 3E Construction, and then GP Construction. His duties include vessel

mechanics and oil spill cleanup. A homeless Tennessee transfer to Alaska, he now has a home, a vehicle, and steady employment that showcases his new skillset.

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Youth Apprenticeship – Faces of Success
In Alaska, Noah Switzer, Gabriel Browner, Asher Wells, and Logan Shane found success through Alaska Works Partnership. Noah transitioned from building maintenance to telecommunications, Gabriel moved from welding training to the Ironworkers' apprenticeship program, Asher progressed from plumbing and pipefitting courses to an apprenticeship, and Logan went from farm work to carpentry training to employment in construction. Their stories highlight opportunity and determination in Alaska's landscape.
Austin Hatten
In June of 2023, Austin took a significant step towards his goal by applying to the IBEW apprenticeship program. Recognizing the importance of building a strong foundation for his future, he didn’t stop there. In July, he seized the opportunity to enhance his skill set by enrolling in Alaska Works Partnership’s telecommunications training.
Michael Abraham
Michael’s transition from military service to a fulfilling career in carpentry mirrors his unwavering determination and tenacity. After returning to Chefornak, Alaska, he initially worked as a substitute teacher. However, he soon realized his passion lay in hands-on work.
Women in the Trades – Faces of Success
Discover the inspiring journeys of Elsie Nayokpuk, Maya Vincent, Myriah Edwards, and Erin Harris, who found new career paths through trades training. Elsie's love for carpentry led her to AWP, landing her a job at F&E Contracting and contributing to vital housing projects. Maya embraced telecommunications training, excelling at H5 Contractors, and now plans to reapply for advanced programs. Myriah's welding skills got a boost through AWP, propelling her into a service-oiler apprenticeship. Erin transitioned from cooking to heavy equipment operation, thriving with AWP's support, and now working on major construction projects. These stories highlight how trades training can transform lives, opening doors to fulfilling careers and new opportunities.
Derek Harris
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 telecommunications training, a strategic move to bolster his qualifications and perform better in future interviews.
Faces of Success
Alaska Works Student success. Trent Moss - Telecommunications Nancy libao - Carpentry Erin Harris - Heavy Equipment Operating Paxton Wheeler - Elevator Technician Ivan Voronin - Diesel Mechanic
Tanori Perry
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 future for his growing family. With a goal of settling in Alaska, Tanori explored various options before ultimately setting his settings on the teamsters apprenticeship.
Kenna Bates - Alaska Works Student Success
Kenna Bates
Kenna engaged in multiple AWP trainings and even applied to the IBEW, ultimately landing a spot on their waiting list. During this period, she continued her training with us, worked as a stage hand at a performing arts center, and assisted friends with home renovation projects. These experiences culminated in a new career as a Stage Hand Carpenter with the Anchorage Opera.
Manny Acuna
Manny Acuna, an Air Force veteran, came to Alaska 20 years ago. After transitioning from the military, he discovered Alaska Works through Helmets to Hardhats. With an associate degree in project management, Manny explored construction trades through various classes, ultimately falling in love with electrical work. He joined the IBEW apprenticeship program with assistance from the Alaska Works team, starting as an apprentice on a power plant in Anchorage. Despite initial challenges, Manny's perseverance led to financial success and job satisfaction. Now a general foreman, he will become a project manager next season. Manny advises aspiring apprentices to start early, maintain a positive attitude, take initiative, and be punctual. In his limited free time, he serves as the school board president for the Alaska Native Cultural Charter School, urging others to volunteer and engage in their community.
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