Recognizing the Next Generation of Glaziers

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Utah Glass Association’s Apprentice Appreciation BBQ with NGA Chairman Rick Locke to celebrate UGA’s graduating class of glazier apprentices. After joining NGA earlier this year as the director of apprenticeship, this was my first opportunity to meet with some of the glaziers and contractors that use NGA’s Glazier Apprenticeship Curriculum as part of a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

It was great to get share in this exciting time for the graduates. I was able to speak with several of UGA's current and past apprentices during my visit and found a common theme in their responses when I asked what the most rewarding part of being a glazier is—to quote one, it's "seeing cool stuff that I have built with my own hands." 

During my career, I’ve issued journeyworker certificates—the nationwide credential issued by the Department of Labor upon completing an apprenticeship program—to hundreds of apprentices. It’s not often they receive the kind of recognition UGA provides for this accomplishment. But recognition is important.

Not only are apprentices working full-time, they’re also learning on the job. Beyond the job site, they’re spending a substantial amount of time—at least 432 hours—learning in a classroom (or classroom-like setting online). That’s the equivalent of two college courses a year. 

Apprentices aren’t your most experienced employees, but they are definitely putting in the work. As an employer, investing in their development and celebrating their progress—especially completion of an apprenticeship—shows your team that you value growth, dedication and achievement.

Whether it’s a barbecue, a pizza party, or formal banquet, have the celebration. Completing an apprenticeship is a big deal: Make presenting apprentices with their journeyworker certificates a big deal. Do it publicly and invite their families to share in the moment. 

And now, with NGA’s new digital Apprenticeship Badges, you can also recognize each milestone along the way. Apprentices will receive a custom digital badge upon completion of each year of the curriculum. Each badge will be delivered digitally and can be added to their email signature, LinkedIn profile, or professional portfolio. Encourage them to share it far and wide!

Recognition isn’t just good for the morale of an individual, it’s an investment in retention, your culture, and the future of your entire workforce.