The Italian Community Center banquet room filled to capacity on April 8 with MATC apprenticeship graduates, MATC staff and representatives of the community.MATC Interim President Vicki Martin spoke about the importance of rebuilding our economy on a local, national and global scale. “As we enter into a new era of green jobs and economic revitalization, trades people are being called upon to provide a much needed boost to our prosperity,” said Martin.

Kevin Kelnhofer and Patricia Villanueva were honored with the Academic Excellence Award. Kelnhofer works at Alliance Tool and Die and Villanueva at Tony Rentas Hair Styling, both as MATC apprentices.

The Distinguished Service award was presented to Pamela Fendt, director of the Good Jobs and Livable Neighborhoods Coalition and chair of Milwaukee County Apprenticeship Work Group.

Civic Apprenticeship awards were given to Elise Garrett, manager of Martha’s Salon; William Hoepner, business agent of Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 18; and Anthony Rainey, President UAW Local 469. Two hundred thirty-one apprenticeship graduates were acknowledged during the event.