On Aug. 2, 2019, ISD staff held a Career Tech to Careers signing event with Ryan MacGregor, a 2019 graduate of Harbor Springs High School. MacGregor has started a career with Walstrom Marina on the waterfront in Harbor Springs, serving as a technician apprentice. The work involves a number of skills revolving around repair and service of boats, including plumbing, electrical, basic mechanical repairs and working with customers to diagnose issues. “We have been trying to figure out where Ryan shines, but that’s everywhere,” said Wayne Peterson, MacGregor’s supervisor and the company’s service leader.

During his senior year, MacGregor enrolled in Adam Hausler’s automotive class, a Career and Technical Education offering. The skills he learned there translate well to repair of boats, which have many similar systems. “If you can fix a car, you can fix boats, motorcycles, ski lifts, golf carts, large equipment – anything mechanical,” Hausler said.

Walstrom marine technician Corey Geiger and Brenda Andrews, accounts payable/HR for the company, visited the class last school year in search of students, particularly those who were not college bound, who might be interested in coming to work for Walstrom after graduation. It worked – three students were interested early-on, with MacGregor following through to secure the spot. He began work full-time on June 10, and will be eligible for full benefits upon completing the summer successfully.

His teacher noted, “Ryan was an exceptional student. He has a good attitude, was willing to learn and has a really good work ethic and attendance. He was not afraid to try something new.”

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