Building a Future in the Skilled Trades: Lestat’s Story

In celebration of Apprenticeship Week, we’re proud to highlight Lestat DeLong, a senior at Owosso High School, who is turning his passion for construction into a clear career pathway.

Like many students interested in the skilled trades, Lestat entered high school highly motivated to work but with limited exposure to structured career pathways. Through his Jobs for Michigan's Graduates (JMG) program at Shiawassee RESD and his Construction Trades Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, Lestat was able to experience a variety of career pathways, and learned to think beyond immediate job opportunities toward long-term growth. Rather than entering the workforce with only entry-level experience, he recognized that an apprenticeship would provide a structured pathway to advance more quickly, increase his earning potential, and build a competitive edge in the skilled trades. 

A major turning point came through a summer work experience at Owosso Memorial Hospital, where Lestat worked approximately 6 hours per day in the maintenance department. There, he gained hands-on experience across multiple areas—including electrical work, plumbing, and general facility maintenance—while building confidence in his skills. His supervisors and teachers quickly recognized his strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.

“He has an incredible work ethic and a clear vision for his future,” said Vonda Evans, his JMG Specialist at Shiawassee RESD, a program of GST Michigan Works!. “He leads by example and consistently demonstrates the kind of dedication that will help him succeed in the skilled trades.”

Inspired by interest from fellow students in the skilled trades as well, Lestat took initiative at school by founding a Construction Trades Club, creating a space for other students to explore careers in construction and build practical skills together. His leadership and drive have made him a role model among his peers, consistently encouraging others to consider careers in the trades.

Now a senior enrolled in his CTE program, Lestat has been recognized for his dedication and achievement, earning Outstanding CTE Construction Trades Student of the Year. He continues to build his professional portfolio while working part-time in the maintenance department at Owosso Memorial Hospital, further strengthening his real-world experience.

After graduation, Lestat plans to enter a registered carpentry apprenticeship through the Carpenters Union in Saginaw, where he will earn while he learns through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. While he has already built a strong foundation in construction through hands-on experience, Lestat made the intentional decision to pursue an apprenticeship as a way to deepen his skills, gain industry-recognized credentials, and create long-term stability in his career. His long-term goal is to become a certified carpenter and build homes and other structures in his community, bringing both skill and pride to the work he does.

Driven, hardworking, and a natural leader, Lestat exemplifies JMG’s focus on career preparation and development. His journey highlights how hands-on experience, mentorship, and strong support systems can help students successfully transition from high school into high-demand careers—and inspire others to do the same.