105 students honored in Michigan Career and Technical Institute’s winter/spring graduation ceremony

MCTI’s student-focused approach results in postsecondary success for individuals with disabilities

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) hosted its winter/spring graduation ceremony Thursday, celebrating 105 students who successfully completed in-demand training programs and earned credentials that will help them access competitive, integrated employment opportunities.

MCTI, the second-largest vocational rehabilitation training center in the country, held the ceremony at its main campus in Plainwell with current and graduating students, staff, families and community members in attendance.

“Michigan Career and Technical Institute has a long history of providing high-quality instruction to help Michiganders with disabilities secure life-changing career opportunities and lead fulfilling, self-sufficient lives,” said MCTI Director Scott Cubberly. “I’m proud of the dedication, commitment and outstanding achievements demonstrated by this exceptional group of students and look forward to their future success.”

Four graduating students were named recipients of MCTI’s prestigious Honor Award. Since 1973, the award has been presented to students who have made outstanding contributions to the school, contributed to the success of their fellow students and individual classrooms, and shown significant growth during their time at MCTI.

Graduate student recipients of MCTI’s Honor Award were Clayson Cook of Genesee County (Custodial Program), Matthew Crandall of Eaton County (Automotive Technology), Kei’on Humber of Kent County (Culinary Arts) and Michael Rabeau of Wayne County (Culinary Arts). Weston DuBois of Newaygo County (Machine Technology) was selected to give the Student Address during the commencement ceremony.

“These students represent the very best of MCTI — they embody the dedication, hard work and collaborative spirit the devoted staff strives to instill in their students each and every day,” said Sigrid Adams, Bureau Director of Michigan Rehabilitation Services. “I’m excited for each of the graduates and the bright futures that lie ahead of them.”

The group of 105 graduates included 18 students who completed Certified Nursing Assistant training at MCTI’s accredited extension campuses in Benton Harbor (13 graduates) and Kalamazoo (five). It also included three culinary arts graduates from MCTI’s extension campus at Torch 180 in Fowlerville.

MCTI promotes the integration of Michiganders with disabilities into both the competitive workplace and society. Students at MCTI’s Plainwell campus may enroll in one of 12 technical training programs, including automotive technology, cabinet making/millwork, certified nurse assistant, commercial printing, culinary arts, custodial, grounds maintenance/landscaping, industrial electronics, information technology, machine technology, pharmacy technician and retail marketing.

Each training program is supported by an active advisory committee made up of people who work in that industry and help ensure the school’s curriculum and equipment meet business standards and needs. MCTI offers students health, psychological and social work services, sports and activities, housing, student government and much more.

MCTI is a division of Michigan Rehabilitation Services within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

Learn more about the Michigan Career and Technical Institute by visiting Michigan.gov/MCTI.

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