Editor's Note: Apprenticeships strengthen the regional talent pipeline and create pathways into meaningful careers. This series highlights the inspiring journeys of Lehigh Valley apprentices and demonstrates how apprenticeships are transforming our workforce by developing in-demand skills.
Apprenticeships are a proven engine of workforce development and personal advancement. They offer participants a hands-on pathway to gain critical skills, and an opportunity to earn while they learn and directly contribute to the Lehigh Valley’s growing companies. 
One inspiring example of the impact apprenticeships can have is the journey of Codjo Ahovey, a motivated Lehigh Valley resident whose pursuit of skill-building, life-long learning, and career advancement led him to Heidelberg Materials, an employer member of the Industrial Training and Education Consortium (iTEC), a partnership of industry, education, government, and community organizations that promotes careers in advanced manufacturing.
Ahovey’s story began not in a classroom, but in a waiting room. While accompanying his daughter to a doctor's appointment, a flyer for the Industrial Maintenance Pre-Apprenticeship Program at Northampton Community College sparked his interest. Already working in manufacturing, Ahovey was eager to expand his skills and pursue a long-term career in this evolving industry. He shared, "I always want to learn something that I can do with my hands—that’s why I went into the program." He made the call, set up a meeting, and took the first step toward a brighter future.
Balancing full-time employment with classes required resilience and discipline, but Ahovey understood the value of investing in himself. Upon completing his pre-apprenticeship, he transitioned to an apprenticeship at Heidelberg Materials, one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of building materials and solutions. The experience was eye-opening: the scale of the operation, the complexity of the systems, and the culture of collaboration reinforced Ahovey’s belief that he was in the right place.
At Heidelberg, he embraced every possible opportunity to learn. He has worked hands-on with experienced professionals, engaging in welding, CNC operations, and equipment diagnostics. Ahovey’s drive to understand every task and every tool earned him respect among his peers and mentors. His natural curiosity and problem-solving mindset has turned every day into a chance to grow.
Learning to weld was a personal milestone for Ahovey. With no prior experience, he committed himself to mastering the technique under the guidance of skilled instructors. Today, he proudly uses his welding skills on the job and has become a champion of the apprenticeship model. As Ahovey puts it, "I never wanted to touch a torch before, but now I can weld, and I’m still learning every day."
His path has not been without challenges. Language barriers and adapting to a new professional environment required persistence and courage. He credits his success to a supportive network of family members, educators, colleagues, and a region that values skilled trades and continuous skills development.
Looking ahead, Ahovey plans to continue learning and hopes to one day teach others the skills he has acquired. He’s not just doing a job—he’s laying the foundation for a meaningful career.
Ahovey’s story illustrates the transformative power of apprenticeship programs and the opportunities available across the Lehigh Valley’s diverse and dynamic economy. At a time when manufacturers are seeking talent and when individuals are seeking purpose, stories like Ahovey’s illuminate the path forward. Apprenticeships empower individuals to build sustainable careers while strengthening the Lehigh Valley’s talent pipeline and economic growth.
(Photos by Rick Kintzel)