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 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 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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Austin Hatten

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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

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