Not every high school student goes to college after graduation, but some alternatives offer opportunities for those who are not college-bound.
For three Lake Havasu High School graduates, just one encounter gave them the opportunity to be employed by a long-standing company. In a group of 15 students, Darin Craig, owner of Craig Plumbing, hosted an on-campus graduate information meeting.
At the meeting, he was described as pursuing a trading career within his company, an industry Craig says is often looked down on. In addition to his plumbing work, Craig also owns and employs people for Craig Fire Protection and Tiger Trenching.
“I don’t see a lot of young people entering the profession,” Craig said. “Being a plumber isn’t all bad, especially now that the demand for these jobs is so high.”
Of the students who attended the meeting, Chad Adams, Jacob Snyder and Damian Villafana applied and were accepted as employees, Craig says. Two of the graduates started at Craig Fire Protection, while the third student stayed with Craig Plumbing, he continues.
Each of the new employees receives practical training and is supervised by a journeyman. This process allows high school seniors to gain experience they can use when applying for other jobs, says Craig.
During their time with the company, new employees complete OSHA training and earn certification to use heavy machinery, such as forklifts.
“We invest time and effort in these people,” Craig said. “It’s hard work and I tell them that. But if they pull through this, I realize these guys are worth teaching.”
The program is currently open to all high school seniors who have no physical limitations, explains Craig. Those interested in the program are encouraged to speak to Craig or fill out an online application.
www.havasunews.com
https://www.havasunews.com/news/craig-plumbing-provides-apprenticeship-program-for-graduating-high-school-students/article_c6b26044-0966-11ee-9a96-effc11d65899.html
