How Michigan's Career Tech Programs Are Creating the Next Generation of Skilled Workers

Career Tech Education in Michigan's Char-Em Region

Students study in the Char-Em ISD library. (Courtesy/Char-Em ISD)

Voters in Charlevoix, Emmet, and northern Antrim counties will decide on May 5, 2026, whether to renew a 1.0 mill funding measure for career and technical education programs. This millage would generate approximately $8.1 million annually from 2026-29, continuing support for 23 high school career tech programs across 11 public school districts.

Expanding Job Coaching and Work-Based Learning

According to Jim Rummer, director of career and technical education for Char-Em ISD, the previous millage approved in May 2022 allowed for increased job coaching and revived the co-op work-based learning program. "These coaches are working with hundreds of students across the region to help them find careers in fields they are passionate about," Rummer said.

Jobs for Michigan's Graduates specialists, employed by Northwest Michigan Works! in partnership with Char-Em ISD, now serve as job mentors in each district. Tracy Beckley, youth services regional director for Northwest Michigan Works, explained: "We arrange classroom speakers and company tours and also focus on interviewing preparation and work experiences. By the end of senior year we want each senior to have a solid plan to launch their career."

The Co-op Program: Real-World Experience

The co-op program allows high school seniors to work part of the school day while earning wages, high school credits, and valuable experience in their field of interest. Rummer highlighted the partnership's benefits for businesses: "We are able to offer businesses not only students with real-world skill, talent, and sometimes certifications, but we can also provide the first $1,500 of wages in a co-op experience for interested businesses. That's huge."

During the 2025-26 school year, 40 students participated in co-op experiences, with many transitioning directly into skilled trades after graduation.

Student Success Stories

• Zach Piechan, a Boyne City High School graduate, became interested in heavy equipment work after a Trades Day event and later secured a position with Manthei Construction.
• Ryan Meier, a 2025 Harbor Springs High School graduate, split his days between school and work with Bay Water Builders, accepting a job as an entry-level carpenter after graduation.
• Caleb Powell, a 2024 Concord Academy - Petoskey graduate, participated in co-op while taking welding classes and working at S&S Welding, transitioning to full-time employment after graduation.

Career Tech to Careers Signing Events

Char-Em ISD holds Career Tech to Careers signing events modeled after student-athlete signing ceremonies to recognize students moving directly into the workforce. "This is a way we go full circle in supporting these young adults who are putting their skills to work in valuable trades in our communities," Rummer said.

Ongoing Support After Graduation

Beckley emphasized the continued support system: "The JMG Specialist contacts each student at least once a month after graduation for a year to encourage them to follow through on their goals or pivot if necessary."

More information about the programs and student stories is available through Char-Em ISD's career tech website.