Building Futures partnered with the State Apprenticeship Council at RI Department of Labor and Training to honor apprentices making a difference in their workplaces and Registered Apprenticeship Programs. All RA sponsors statewide were invited to nominate an apprentice. The SAC reviewed 17 nominees across three dimensions:
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Excellence in Performance
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Excellence in Perseverance
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Excellence in Contribution
All of the nominees deserve recognition for their efforts in building new careers through Registered Apprenticeship. Nominees, finalists, and awardees will be recognized during the Apprenticeship Works Reception on November 20, 2024.
Meet the 2024 Apprentice Nominees for the Excellence in Apprenticeship Award
Registered Apprenticeship Expansion Apprentice Nominees
About Teri Bailey
Teri has consistently shown professionalism and compassion in her work at Rhode Island Hospital in the Emergency Department. She has acted as a strong patient advocate while dealing with difficult social services in a fast-paced and often unpredictable environment. In addition to being an active and enthusiastic participant in her training Teri has taken the initiative to pursue additional certifications, encouraging her colleagues to similarly expand their education and credentials.
“Teri is a self starter, that is motivated to learn, serve, and help others in ways that go above and beyond her call of duty.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
The IEH launched its apprenticeship in 2022 to train Certified Community Health Workers (CHWs) and Behavioral Health Case Managers. Partnering with the
Community Health Workers Association of Rhode Island, this multi-employer program connects apprentices with over 40 healthcare and community-based
organizations in RI. CHWs receive specialized training to better serve undeserved communities and improve access to quality care.
Maria has demonstrated a commitment to expanding her skillset as a classroom educator through the Infant Toddler Apprenticeship, integrating the concepts she is learning in her classes into her work at Way to Grow Child Care Center. Among her peers, teachers and employer, she is known for her hard work, kindness and determination.
“Maria’s determination and commitment to her workplace, to her college professor, to her peers and to herself help our organization work harder to ensure other early childhood educators have the same access to this amazing and unique program.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
The Rhode Island Association for the Education of Young Children (RIAEYC) supports early childhood education through collaboration with families and educators. In partnership with the RI Department of Human Services, they launched an Infant Toddler Registered Apprenticeship Program in 2021, aimed at addressing both under-compensation and a lack of professional development opportunities for early childhood educators.
About David Coelho
David has excelled in the RINLA program, emerging as a leader both at his employer, GreenerEase, and within the program. In addition to going above and beyond to expand his expertise in his field, he has served as a crew leader in the RINLA pre-apprenticeship program, honing his leadership abilities while helping others find a path into the industry.
“David is an incredible example of why the program is an important catalyst in career growth for individuals in green industry.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
RINLA supports a broad range of companies in the landscaping, agricultural and plant-based industries. Their program, launched in 2018, is the first multi-employer registered apprenticeship of its kind in the nation and is aimed at increasing the number of industry-trained young people entering the green industry workforce.
Apprentices receive training that allows them to explore different career paths within the industry while gaining hands-on experience with local employers.
About Jason David
Jason’s work ethic and willingness to learn new skills have helped set the bar for other employees at American Mussel Harvesters. Transitioning from a career in education, he quickly adapted to his new industry, entering the apprenticeship determined to become an expert in the oyster farming field. His perseverance, resilience and dedication have helped him overcome significant obstacles while making a strong impact on the oyster farming community.
“Jason is an exemplary employee in every aspect of the job from work ethic, to attitude and willingness to learn and help out where he can.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Led by The Education Exchange, a non-profit adult learning center in Southern RI, and Dr. Robert Rheault, Director of the East Coast Shellfish Grower’s Association, the Aquaculture Training Partnership provides training on boating skills, shellfish biology, dealer and shipper skills andother competencies needed for employment in RI’s aquaculture industry.
About Desiree Dompier
Desiree, a first-year apprentice in the Infant Toddler Registered Apprenticeship, has excelled at applying the classroom learning she’s received in the program to her work at the YWCA. She is dedicated to providing an environment in which every child’s needs are met, and has emerged as a role model for her fellow teachers as well as the families she serves.
“Desiree goes beyond the expectations of her apprenticeship… she is always willing to participate and share her own ideas, which encourages other apprentices to engage.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
The Rhode Island Association for the Education of Young Children (RIAEYC) supports early childhood education through collaboration with families and educators. In partnership with the RI Department of Human Services, they launched an Infant Toddler Registered Apprenticeship Program in 2021, aimed at addressing both under-compensation and a lack of professional development opportunities for early childhood educators.
About Carlos De La Rosa
Carlos’s creativity and determination have enabled him to lead impactful projects at the RISD Museum. From creating interpretive videos to launching a series of virtual gallery tours, his work has earned significant recognition at the museum and within the community. Transitioning from photography to video production,
Carlos mastered new skills to create engaging multimedia installations and promotional materials. His contributions continue to elevate his team and the museum.
“Carlos is able to work with a huge variety of people and present his ideas with passion and excitement that pulls people into the world he is creating through his medium.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Founded in 1877, the RISD Museum is one of the largest academic museums in the country and houses a collection of over 100,000 objects. As an organization connected to an academic institution, the museum recognized the need for accessible and sustainable education in the arts, leading them to create their registered apprenticeship program.
About Sharrieff Muhammad
Sharrieff has made significant contributions to major Dimeo projects during his time as an apprentice, including the RI State Health Lab and Providence College’s Shanley Dorm. His ability to be innovative and take initiative have helped him thrive in the fast-paced environment of project management. In addition to
the technical skills he brings to the jobsite, Sharrieff’s open mind, positive attitude and clear respect for all workers on the site have distinguished him as a future industry leader. Sharrieff graduated Building Futures’ pre-apprenticeship before becoming one of Dimeo’s first apprentices in this new program.
“Sharrieff was given many missions and did all of them with enthusiasm, diligence and accuracy.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Dimeo is one of the New England’s leading construction organizations. Their Assistant Project Engineer Apprenticeship provides a pathway to construction management, combining office-based training and on-the-job experience.
About Sage Oranje
Throughout his time with the Cedar Island Oyster Company, Sage has established himself as an integral part of the team, showing determination in overcoming obstacles and a commitment to collaborative work. He has shown an excellent capacity to anticipate the next move on the oyster farm, an ability which helps his team function more efficiently, ultimately improving production.
“Sage always comes to work with a positive attitude and a willingness to work. He is a team player, and always ready to lend a hand wherever something needs doing.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Led by The Education Exchange, a non-profit adult learning center in Southern RI, and Dr. Robert Rheault, Director of the East Coast Shellfish Grower’s Association, the Aquaculture Training Partnership provides training on boating skills, shellfish biology, dealer and shipper skills and other competencies needed for employment in RI’s aquaculture industry.
About Victoria Picton
Victoria has demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative throughout her apprenticeship. Stepping into a critical role during a challenging time, she revitalized the Wire EDM department at Antaya, mastering its operations and ensuring efficiency. Her positive approach to learning, problem-solving, and mentoring has had a lasting impact on her team. Her willingness to take on new challenges has not only elevated her own skills but also strengthened those of the entire Tool Room team.
“Victoria is very competent and takes pride in her work to always deliver the desired results to the best of her ability.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Antaya launched its Tool Maker apprenticeship program in 2018, offering a four-year training pathway in one of the oldest and most specialized trades. Apprentices develop skills in constructing and troubleshooting progressive die tooling and fixtures used in welding, soldering, and assembly. Blending hands-on training with online coursework through ToolingU and in-house instruction, the program prepares apprentices for a critical role in the manufacturing industry.
About Jack Skinner
Since starting the apprenticeship earlier this year, Jack has made a significant impact on production and operations at Blue Acres Aquaculture, a company specializing in shellfish and seaweed farming. Joining the team this summer, he applied the training he received through the Aquaculture Training Partnership to help streamline production during one of the busiest times of the year, contributing to new customers and products at local restaurants.
“Jack has been a pleasure to have on our farm crew. He learned the basics through the program and was able to use the skills he learned in our day to day operations.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Led by The Education Exchange, a non-profit adult learning center in Southern RI, and Dr. Robert Rheault, Director of the East Coast Shellfish Grower’s Association, the Aquaculture Training Partnership provides training on boating skills, shellfish biology, dealer and shipper skills and other competencies needed for employment in RI’s aquaculture industry.
About Sugely Volquez
Sugely has been an invaluable source of support to both her team at Genesis and to the children and families she serves at the center. Despite facing significant obstacles, she has taken initiative to go above and beyond, both in her training and her work. With unwavering determination to overcome challenges, a commitment to actively engage with the Genesis community, and the ability to uplift those around her, she stands as a testament to others that they can achieve their goals.
“Sugely’s adaptability, confidence, and commitment to continuous learning make her an invaluable asset to the Genesis Child Development and Learning Center.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
The Genesis Center launched its Early Childhood Educator apprenticeship program in 2019, offering a one-year pathway aligned with Rhode Island’s Early Learning Workforce Knowledge and Competencies. Apprentices earn their Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, enabling career advancement to Lead Teacher roles while enhancing their center’s state rating.
Building and Construction Trades Apprentice Nominees
About Jenna DeCosta
Jenna, a welder with Local 51, stood out since her first day in the program as a dedicated and determined worker. She has earned the respect of coworkers, instructors and contractors alike with her strong work ethic and willingness to learn new skills. She has secured four international welding certifications and represented her local at the District 1 apprenticeship competition earlier this year.
“Even though times are changing, it was not always easy to show up on a job as the welder. Jenna took the task and ran with it.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
UA Local 51 represents HVAC, plumbing and pipefitting workers in RI and Southeastern MA. Their five-year registered apprenticeship program offers a mix of classroom and on-the-job training, equipping participants with the skills needed to succeed in their chosen trade.
About Chris Melendez
Chris has proven to be an invaluable member of every project he works on, with his enthusiasm, initiative and reliability earning him praise from both colleagues and contractors. Since starting with the Millwrights last year, he has worked on two of their largest projects: Amazon and Vineyard Wind, where he is currently doing on-shore pre-assembly. Chris is a Building Futures pre-apprenticeship graduate.
“Chris took everything we spoke to him about at his orientation and ran with it. Punctuality and attitude is key to success and he clearly learned from the best at Building Futures.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Millwrights Local 1121 represents industrial mechanics in RI, MA, NY, CT, NH, ME and VT. Members work on a variety of moving machinery, from paper mills to baggage carousels. During the 4-year apprenticeship, participants are trained on technical skills including rigging, welding and fabrication and machinery installation through a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job experience.
About Kyle Raposo
Since Kyle began his apprenticeship in 2021, he is always working on the job proactively. He takes jobs no matter the distance from his home. He is very aggressive in learning tasks and completing them to the best of his ability. He is reliable and can apply what he learns to new situations and tasks. You can give him a new task, and he retains information from similar jobs and dives right in. You can rely on him, he never misses time. On any given day, there are two or three people out, Kyle is never one of them.
“Kyle has gone above and beyond, quickly meeting and exceeding on-the-job requirements. He is a role model for other apprentices.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Sheet Metal Workers Local 17 represents workers in the sheet metal industry specializing in a diverse variety of trades, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning and roofing. Their longstanding 5-year apprenticeship program blends classroom instruction with hands-on training, preparing apprentices for careers as journeyworkers. With a focus on new technologies like CAD and a commitment to safety, the SMW 17 apprenticeship offers opportunities for apprentices to learn the skills necessary to thrive in a changing construction landscape.
About Miguel Santana
Miguel has stood out during his apprenticeship for his work ethic, reliability, technical skills and leadership abilities, often taking the time to mentor fellow apprentices despite a busy schedule. His dedication to safety on the jobsite and positive approach to problem-solving ultimately create a safer and more efficient work environment for everyone he works with. Miguel graduated Building Futures’ pre-apprenticeship program before joining LiUNA 271’s apprenticeship program.
“Miguel’s blend of technical aptitude, leadership, and dedication not only highlighted his potential as a future tradesperson but also set a benchmark for excellence within the team.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Laborers Local Union 271 represents skilled construction craft laborers who work on a variety of job sites, from roads and bridges to general construction projects. Their apprenticeship provides participants with 4,000 hours of on the job training and 320 hours of classroom instruction, preparing graduates for employment with contractors across the state.
About Zach Smith
Zach, a first-year apprentice with Local 271, has stood out in his work with RP Iannuccillo & Sons as a team player and leader, dedicated to seeking out opportunities to enhance his skills in building and utility work. He has stepped up as an essential leader during staff shortages, overseeing subcontractors on-site. They credentials he has earned and his commitment to his work have made him an integral member of the RP Iannuccillo team.
“Zach leads other apprentices by example, always putting others before himself in ways that make industry leaders and supervisors proud.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Laborers Local Union 271 represents skilled construction craft laborers who work on a variety of job sites, from roads and bridges to general construction projects. Their apprenticeship provides participants with 4,000 hours of on the job training and 320 hours of classroom instruction, preparing graduates for
employment with contractors across the state.
About Ammara Tha
Ammara has demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism throughout his apprenticeship. With a strong work ethic, the ability to adapt, and meticulous attention to detail, he has earned exemplary evaluations and praise from instructors and peers alike. Ammara’s leadership is made clear by his willingness to assist fellow apprentices, contributing to the overall success of the program. Ammara graduated Building Futures’ pre-apprenticeship program before joining the Carpenters’ apprenticeship program.
“Ammara has one of the steadiest track records of turning in work reports and receiving excellent evaluations each training period he has attended.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
The NASRCC represents over 30,000 members in the region, from general carpenters to pile drivers. Apprentices complete 160 hours of annual education over four years, focusing on specialized areas such as floor covering or broader commercial skills like framing, drywall, and finish work. With hands-on experience and union support, graduates are equipped for both advancement in their trade and leadership roles within their union.
About Nahlah Thomas
Nahlah has excelled the since her first day, approaching her training with an eagerness to learn and determination to put her new skills into practice on the jobsite. Her initiative, adaptability, attention to safety, and ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team contribute not only to her professional growth, but also to the overall success of the apprenticeship program, paving the way for future generations.
“Nahlah has emerged as a pivotal figure among her peers, demonstrating both leadership and a commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment.”
About the Registered Apprenticeship Program
Laborers Local Union 271 represents skilled construction craft laborers who work on a variety of job sites, from roads and bridges to general construction projects. Their apprenticeship provides participants with 4,000 hours of on the job training and 320 hours of classroom instruction, preparing graduates for employment with contractors across the state.