Labor-Management Education Committee – Lee Graham, Fall 2026
With summer rapidly coming to an end and the fall season right around the corner, we would like to quickly recap a few great things Operating Engineers 324 has been a part of over the last few months.
The 8th Annual American Cancer Society Big Dig was hosted at the Operating Engineers 324 Construction Career Center in Howell on July 11th. Families that included over 600 children of all ages enjoyed a hands-on and immersive introduction to the construction industry and science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Children operated heavy equipment with the help of skilled volunteers and took part in construction-themed crafts, demonstrations, and activities in the name of a great cause. Money raised at the Big Dig went to support the American Cancer Society’s work in pediatric cancer research. Due to the amazing supporters and industry partners, over $160,000 was raised in the fight against childhood cancer! The money raised allows the organization to bring awareness and showcase their mission – Construction vs Cancer. The smiles on the faces of the many participants were priceless, and OE324 was honored to host such an amazing event with all the other partners that made it happen.
On August 9th & 10th, Michigan Apprenticeship Steering Committee (MASCI) partnered with Executive Director Mike Smith and the Upper Peninsula Construction Council (UPCC) to host the annual MASCI Industry Reception and MASCI Membership Meeting. Special guests in attendance included Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) Director Susan Corbin, Opportunity Administrative Manager Apprenticeship Expansion, Scott Jedele, Helmets to Hardhats Michigan State Director Sam Dougherty, and USDOL-OA Michigan State Director Tiffanie Clawson. On August 9th, the MASCI Industry Reception, which included a hands-on skilled trades challenge competition, was held at the UA Upper Peninsula Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC Local 111 facility. The multi-trade challenge included the Operating Engineers, Iron Workers, Laborers, Carpenters and Millwrights, IUPAT, and Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC.
Members of the Stationary Group recently hosted the National Association of Workforce Boards’ Board of Directors for a behind-the-scenes tour of Little Caesars Arena. NAWB represents local workforce boards across the country — including Michigan Works! here at home — and its directors were in Detroit to see how the region connects people to good-paying careers. Local 324 members walked the group through the systems that keep the arena running, from the central plant to the ice sheet below the floor. It was a first-hand look at the skill it takes to operate a building like LCA, and a reminder that behind every event is a team of Operating Engineers.
This summer, Operating Engineers 324 was given the opportunity to partner with the Great Lakes Super Sprints racing organization, Berlin Raceway, Merritt Speedway, and Onaway Speedway. These sponsorships allowed us to spread the word to race fans, pit crew members, and anyone else who stopped by to learn more about various career opportunities that exist as a Heavy Equipment Technician or a Heavy Equipment Operator. These events were a great success that resulted in excellent recognition of our organization.
These great efforts help encourage the Operating Engineers of tomorrow and let communities know all the work we are doing daily to build, to maintain, to operate, and to give back. Have a great fall season and stay safe!
Lee Graham
Treasurer/Executive Director
Labor-Management Education Committee