Operating Engineers 324

After serving five years in the United States Marine Corps maintaining helicopters, Mike LaGrow returned home to Michigan looking for a career that would allow him to continue working with his hands and solving complex mechanical problems. Through a contractor sponsor, he entered the Operating Engineers 324 Registered Apprenticeship program and began building a career as a Heavy Equipment Technician.

Now nearly four years into his apprenticeship, Mike works behind the scenes to keep construction projects moving. From engine rebuilds and hydraulic repairs to welding, fabrication, electrical work, and diagnostics, he has developed a wide range of skills through both on-the-job training and instruction at the OE324 Construction Career Center. He credits the apprenticeship for expanding his knowledge, building his confidence, and providing opportunities to learn new trades and technologies.

Mike takes pride in the critical role Technicians play in the industry. Whether repairing equipment in the field, troubleshooting complex mechanical issues, or helping return a machine to service, he enjoys the challenge of the work and the satisfaction that comes from keeping job sites running. He also values the brotherhood, stability, and opportunities that come with union membership—allowing him to build a successful career, purchase a home, and provide for his family while doing work he loves.

Nathan Kwapis is a Foreman with Payne and Dolan and a graduate of the Operating Engineers 324 Registered Apprenticeship program. After learning about the opportunities available through the trade from a family friend, Nathan pursued a career as an Operating Engineer and quickly discovered a career built on strong wages, outstanding benefits, industry-leading safety standards, and a commitment to helping workers succeed.

Over the course of his apprenticeship, Nathan worked on projects throughout Michigan, including quarry operations, road construction, and highway improvements. One of the most meaningful moments of his career came when he had the opportunity to help rebuild the very road he grew up on—a project that allowed him to give back to his own community while operating the equipment he has loved since childhood.

Today, Nathan credits the apprenticeship's training, mentorship, and sense of brotherhood for helping him grow into a successful operator and leader. From learning specialized equipment to working alongside experienced journeymen, he has found a supportive environment where members are invested in each other's success. In doing so, Nathan was an exceptional apprentice - winning the Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee, Inc. (MASCI) Construction Apprentice of the Year award for 2025.

Nathan takes pride in the work he does, the infrastructure he helps build, and the future he is creating through Operating Engineers 324.

After serving in the United States Marine Corps as an Amphibious Assault Vehicle Operator and rising to the rank of Corporal, Blake Benore began looking for a career that would allow him to stay active, work with his hands, and build a strong future for his family. Through Helmets to Hardhats, he found that opportunity with Operating Engineers 324.

Now training as a Crane Operator through the OE324 Registered Apprenticeship program, Blake is building the skills needed to work on a wide range of projects across Michigan—from setting HVAC units and structural components to supporting major infrastructure work. Following in the footsteps of his father, he was drawn to cranes from an early age and credits the apprenticeship's thorough training, experienced instructors, and opportunities to use his GI Bill benefits for helping him make a successful transition into the skilled trades.

For Blake, the union provides more than a career. Strong wages, excellent benefits, a pension, and the support of fellow members offer the same sense of brotherhood and camaraderie he valued in the Marine Corps. He takes pride in the work he does, the projects he helps build, and the future he is creating through Operating Engineers 324.

On Memorial Day, Operating Engineers 324 honors the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Today, we remember them with solemn gratitude, reflect on the freedoms secured through their sacrifice, and honor their legacy with peace and respect.