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Operating Engineer Union #324 Applications Open April 6th-10th, 2026

Applications for the Operating Engineers Local 324 Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeshipwill open at 12:00 AM on April 6, 2026, and remain open through April 10, 2026, or until applications are exhausted—whichever comes first. Historically, application slots fill very quickly, often within the first one to two hours, and once capacity is reached, no additional applications will be accepted. Interested individuals must be ready to apply as soon as the window opens!

Requirements & Expectations

  • $35 non‑refundable application fee (credit or debit card with Visa or MasterCard logo)
  • Must be at least 17 years old at the time of application
  • Valid Michigan Driver’s License and Michigan residency
  • One of the following education documents:
    • Official high school transcript showing graduation date
    • High school diploma
    • GED
  • Acceptable ACT WorkKeys test scores (tests do not expire and must be taken in person):
    • Applied Mathematics – Level 3 (Heavy Equipment Operator/Technician) or Level 4 (Stationary), with a two‑digit scale score
    • Graphic Literacy (formerly Locating Information) – Level 4, with a two‑digit scale score
    • Workplace Documents (formerly Reading for Information) – Level 4, with a two‑digit scale score

Pro Tip: Test Early!

This apprenticeship has a very tight application turnaround, so now is the time to act. Participants are strongly encouraged to complete their WorkKeys testing ahead of April 6, as testing appointments fill quickly and incomplete applications will not be accepted. 

Want to learn more or have questions? Contact us!

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Medicaid in the Upper Peninsula

Navigating health coverage and work requirements can be confusing, so here’s a simple guide on how the program works and who fills what role:

Medicaid is a health care program funded by the state and federal government that provides health care services to eligible, low-income Michigan citizens, including adults, children, the elderly, pregnant woman, and some people with disabilities.

  • Upper Peninsula Health Plan (UPHP) is a managed care organization licensed by the State of Michigan to provide Medicaid medical services. UPHP helps eligible members access healthcare services, providers, care management, and member support after they are enrolled in Medicaid. They are the only organization of this kind in the Upper Peninsula. 
  • Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) administers Medicaid in Michigan, determines eligibility, manages enrollment through MI Bridges, and oversees Healthy Michigan Plan work requirement policies and exemptions.
  • Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! (UPMW) helps individuals connect with employment, education, training, and career services that may help them meet Healthy Michigan Plan work requirement activities and achieve their employment goals.

To learn more about Medicaid in the U.P, visit UPHP.com.