A Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) student in the Char-Em ISD welding program at Pellston High School is one of the first recipients of a new JMG scholarship that will help him continue his education. Drue Duffield received a $1,000 JMG Scholarship as part of the program’s mission to equip students with the skills to overcome barriers and succeed in education, employment, and in life. The scholarship focuses on the education piece of the JMG mission; to support students who show a demonstrated interest in upskilling themselves through training.

Drue Duffield

Drue says he loves to work with his hands and that led him to pursue a career in welding. He says his experiences in the welding program and in JMG have allowed him to develop his skills in welding, cutting, and fabrication. He plans to attend the Industrial Arts Institute in Onaway to pursue his welding certificate.

JMG Specialist, Mike Vandermus, describes Drue as a hard worker who takes on challenges and sets high goals, and as an independent, creative thinker and a problem solver who is a great example for younger students looking to pursue a career in the trades.

“I have been a part of JMG for two years now and this scholarship really means a lot to me,” said Drue. “It is an amazing opportunity to be a part of this program and for the help they give.”

In addition to the program at Pellston, Char-Em ISD students at Crooked Tree High School in Harbor Springs and East Jordan High School are also involved in JMG. JMG specialists like Vandermus work hand-in-hand with Char-Em ISD CTE staff to provide career and college readiness opportunities to area students.

Pictured with Drue Duffield (center orange shirt) are (from left) Sam McLellan, owner of FeAl Metal Design of Petoskey, Pellston student Noah Sydow, who is also completing a work experience at FeAl, Mike Vandermus, JMG Specialist, and Jim Rummer, Char-Em ISD Director of Career and Technical Education.