WILLIAMSTON, MI – Bekum America Corporation is proud to announce that five new individuals will join its prestigious 2026 Apprenticeship Program. This year’s group represents a diverse range of backgrounds and a shared passion for the skilled trades, reflecting the high caliber of emerging talent across Michigan.
“We are honored to welcome these new students and eager to witness their growth,” said Steve London, President and COO of Bekum America. “These individuals represent the best and brightest in the trades. Their unique experiences allow us to build a well-rounded team that will define the next generation of manufacturing excellence.”
Meet the 2026 Apprentices:
- Erica (Welding): A 2025 Lakeview High School graduate, Erica’s journey began with welding courses at Macomb Community College. After relocating to Lansing and connecting with a peer already in the Bekum program, she chose to pursue her certification with the team in Williamston.
- Mikayla (Welding): Currently pursuing an associate’s degree in Welding Technology at Lansing Community College (LCC), Mikayla is a self-motivated learner eager to transition from the classroom to hands-on technical instruction at Bekum.
- Logan (Electrical): Leveraging his background in the construction trades, Logan enrolled in LCC’s Apprenticeship Career Path to pivot toward industrial electrical work. He joins Bekum ready to build a long-term, hands-on career.
- Dylan (Welding): A high-achieving graduate with a 4.0 GPA, Dylan continues a family legacy as the third member of his family to join Bekum’s program. Following his father and brothers into the trades, he discovered his passion for welding through the Wilson Talent Center.
- Brian (Electrical): A senior at Byron High School, Brian set sights on Bekum after a recommendation from his instructor at the Shiawassee RESD Career and Readiness Center. Following a successful job shadow, he is officially beginning his professional chapter in electrical work.
Established in 1994, Bekum America’s Apprenticeship Program is a nationally registered initiative designed to bridge the skills gap in manufacturing. Since its inception, 35 apprentices have completed the rigorous four-year program. Currently, 17 apprentices are enrolled, and 8 graduates are actively employed at Bekum.
The program’s impact is best described by its alumni. “The opportunity to get a free education with no debt was a gamechanger,” said Glen, a member of the program’s first graduating class. “I was able to start my adult life with a stable income and bought my first house at 20 years old.”
By investing in these five talented individuals, Bekum America continues its decades-long commitment to developing world-class journeymen and securing the future of American manufacturing.
