Alexis Johnson, Brianna Shelton and Patty Kim Taylor were among the latest winners of statewide awards recognizing apprentices, programs and employers.

Johnson, Shelton and Taylor all work as apprentices at the Western Colorado Area Health Education Center in Grand Junction. The center provides community based training for health care providers through community and academic partnerships.

St. Mary’s Hospital and Medical Center in Grand Junction was among four employers recognized in the 2022 Colorado Apprenticeship Awards program.

Joe Barela, executive director of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, praised the winners. “We are proud to recognize this year’s award winners for their achievement, innovation, fresh thinking and values that will raise the bar on Colorado’s economy,” Barela said.  “This year’s winners have proven how powerful the registered apprenticeship model can be, and I am eager to see the possibilities that await us in the new year. ”

A total of 22 individuals, employers and organizations were honored at the fifth annual Colorado Apprenticeship Awards.

The program is a collaboration of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment as well the Business Experiential Learning, Commission, CareerWise Colorado, Colorado Department of Higher Education, Colorado Workforce Development Council, Interagency Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship and State Apprenticeship Council.