Four Albert Lea Youth Apprenticeship graduates, supporting worksites and mentors were recognized at a celebration on Aug. 11 at Riverland Community College.  Graduates include Dalton Carlson, Ben Kelly and Blair Bonnerup, all placed at Lou-Rich Inc.,  and Regin Reyes, placed with Edwards Manufacturing Co. The students received a Certificate of Completion from Al Hauge, with the Minnesota Department of Education. They also received congratulatory letters from Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Businesses recognized for their participation and support of the program were Edwards Manufacturing Co., Interstate Molding & Manufacturing, Lou-Rich Inc. and Ultimate Automotive & Tire. Other community members recognized were Albert Lea Area Schools and Riverland Community College. Fifteen mentors within the businesses were recognized for their commitment to moving the Youth Apprenticeship  students forward.

Roxanne Ponce, human resources manager at Lou-Rich, was presented with a plaque from the Minnesota Association of Career and Technical Administrators. Ponce received the Partner Award for her outstanding coordination of the Youth Apprenticeship model within Lou Rich.

Workforce Development Inc. was recognized at the July 2014 state meeting of the Minnesota Workforce Council Association as Best Practice of the Year for their involvement in the Albert Lea Youth Apprenticeship program.  Valerie Kvale, placement specialist and Youth Apprenticeship  community coordinator, accepted the plaque on behalf of the community from Randy Johnson, Workforce Development Inc. executive director.