Recent High School Graduate Finds His Niche

Brandon Nepjuk recently earned his high school diploma and wasn’t completely sure of the educational or career path he wanted to take after graduation. While in school, he worked as an umpire for a local baseball group and a referee for a football league. However, those jobs didn’t provide him with the work experience needed to enter the workforce.

Nepjuk learned about OCC’s 5-week pre-apprenticeship program and decided it was everything he needed to get him on the path towards employment.

The robust training program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to start a new career. It incorporates in-class lectures, hands-on learning, onsite company tours, and an interview day on the last day of the program. While in the program, Nepjuk earned his Mike Rowe certification, OSHA 10 card, several Starrett certificates, and some college credits.

Nepjuk recommends, “Try it out and put your best effort forward. This program has gotten so many people in the door at companies.” Shortly after completing the training, he was hired at US Farathane as a maintenance tech apprentice. Nepjuk said his manager wants to give him a more well-rounded knowledge of the business, and he is spending time in each department to learn more about the various aspects of the company. He is eager to continue learning about the industry.

OCC’s pre-apprenticeship program educates individuals of all backgrounds who are 18 years of age or older. The 5-week training at the Auburn Hills campus accepts 16 students per session. Students have the ability to connect with classmates and receive individualized attention from the instructor. Multiple course subjects are covered – applied math, blueprint reading, metrology, OSHA 10, workplace skills, and more. New this year, the College has added a welding class. The program is intended to provide basic knowledge to help kick-start their career as an apprentice in a variety of fields.

Ready to Start your Someday? Take the first step and contact Stefanie Karadian at (248) 232-4552 or sxkaradi@oaklandcc.edu.