Southeast Michigan Contractors Issue 4 2023 11 SEMCA STUDENTS BACK TO SCHOOL “There’s a shift from what we saw 10–20 years ago, where the trades were viewed as this last-ditch option. Finally, we’re showing how valuable and incredible the trades are and how a career in the trades can really blossom into a very fruitful and full life,” Barnum said. In total, SEMCA enrolled 605 students — 11 welding students, 26 carpentry students and 568 electrical students. “What we’re finding is our demographics are changing fairly dramatically,” said SEMCA president and CEO Keith Ledbetter. “For many years they were telling everyone, ‘If you wanted to get a successful career, that meant you have to go to college.’ But today, people are starting to realize that that’s not the case.” Ledbetter continued saying that when students come here, they finally find their sense of belonging and learn that working with your hands can be rewarding and students find their mission in life. SEMCA winter enrollment is open on their website. ABC members interested in enrolling employees in electrical, welding, and heavy construction should visit semcaschool.org for the online application. SEMCA staff member Dave Staudt gives a fist bump to a new carpentry student. Kaley Shellnut checks in for her second year of electrical. SEMCA electrical instructor Charles Denoyer welcome his class on the first day. A thumbs up from a year 2 apprentice. SEMCA electrical instructor Jim Brooks smiles with his year 3 apprentices before starting the year.
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