At MMI Industrial & Steel, our core values—Happy, Hungry, Hardworking, and Honorable—define how we do business. But more than that, they shape how we show up for our team, our communities, and our clients. We believe success means more than completing great projects; it means building people and opportunities that make a lasting difference.
One of the most meaningful examples of our core values in action is our partnership with the John Volken Academy, a long-term recovery program that empowers individuals to rebuild their lives through structure, education, and purpose.
Turning Recovery into Opportunity
MMI’s collaboration with the John Volken Academy began with a shared vision: to help graduates transition from recovery to stability through meaningful, skillful work. This vision led to the creation of a Pre-Apprentice Training Program, a hands-on initiative that develops the skills and work ethics needed for success in industrial trades.
By offering instruction in industrial fabrication, welding, and hoist system fundamentals, participants at the program gain not only confidence, but real-world experience, creating a real pathway into a stable, fulfilling career.
In this way, we’re not just training workers, we’re transforming lives.
Our Core Values in Practice
Each stage of the Pre-Apprentice Training Program reflects the spirit of MMI’s four core values:
- Happy: Work should be fulfilling and energizing. Your job doesn’t just give you a paycheck, it gives you a purpose and something to be proud of. Program participants discover the satisfaction that comes from contributing to something bigger, creating a sense of positivity and optimism that extends far beyond the job site.
- Hungry: Growth is a main driver at MMI. We’re always striving to improve, and we look for people who are just as eager to learn and to work hard for a better future. The Academy’s graduates bring enthusiasm and determination to every challenge, embodying this hunger for continuous progress and growth.
- Hardworking: The industrial construction field demands grit, focus, and perseverance. MMI’s success is built on our willingness to work hard in the face of challenges. The Pre-Apprentice Program rewards effort and resilience, helping participants channel their own determination into rewarding careers, even in a demanding industry.
- Honorable: Doing the right thing matters. At MMI, honor is non-negotiable. We honor the journey of these individuals in recovery because we believe that everyone deserves a second chance. The program is a way for us to support our participants and our community, while also helping create a stronger, more inclusive workforce.
Real Results, Real Impact
The impact of this program speaks for itself. Several John Volken Academy graduates have become valuable, full-time members of the MMI team in our Hoist Systems and Industrial Services divisions. Their success stories are a source of pride for the entire MMI family. They stand as proof that when you invest in people, you build more than just a business—you build a legacy.
A Commitment that Continues
Community support is part of who we are at MMI. Our partnership with the John Volken Academy is a testament to the power of values-driven action: when you align purpose and opportunity, everyone wins.
As we continue to grow, we remain committed to creating opportunities that will help us build stronger teams, stronger communities, and stronger futures.
At MMI, people are our greatest investment. If you’re interested in learning more about our teams, or in seeing how our value-driven processes can successfully bring your next project to life, contact us today.
