Michigan Works! Association celebrates job creation and talent development at the 2026 Impact Awards

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Works! Association hosted its annual Impact Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that are strengthening Michigan’s economy through job creation, workforce training and innovative talent development.

Across every region of the state, the Michigan Works! network is at the center of powerful stories. Stories defined by new jobs created, skills sharpened, careers launched and communities transformed. The Impact Awards shine a spotlight on the people and organizations turning that story into reality.

“Michigan's economy is evolving at a remarkable pace. Meeting this moment requires more than good intentions and demands strategic investment in talent. That is exactly what our Michigan Works! Agencies deliver every day,” said Ryan Hundt, chief executive officer for the Michigan Works! Association. “We’re proud to celebrate their essential work, from career coaching that opens doors to training programs that build in-demand skills and employer partnerships that turn workforce challenges into competitive advantages.”

At the event, state legislators, including Rep. Tim Kelly, Rep. Greg Markkanen, Sen. Sarah Anthony and the staff of Sen. Veronica Klinefelt, presented tributes to the honorees, who shared their success stories and the role that Michigan Works! played in their accomplishments.

Award winners include: Bridgewater Interiors, Marriott Hotel - Dearborn Inn, Autograph Collection, Corning Incorporated, Hemlock, Aspire Rural Health System, Power Solutions, Inc., Janiya Wilson, Flowers Early Learning, Delilah Santiago, Cory Budnick - State Farm Insurance Agency, Victoria Humphrey, Clare County Road Commission, Carolyn Racine, Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute, Essence Pye, Bronson Healthcare, Huntey’s Clubhouse, Ryan Hansen, Wolf Line Construction, Isaac Reifschneider, Eaton Steel Corporation, Lisa Wilson, Sherry Kless, Brandon Rich, Oakwood Group, Lindah Mavave, Ageless Home Care, Hilite® International.

“Impact isn’t accidental. It’s built every day by people who believe in possibility—and that spirit and drive is at the heart of the Michigan Works! Impact Awards,” said Kimberly Way, chief experience officer for the Michigan Works! Association. “These awards celebrate real outcomes in communities across our state. That means new jobs created, workers trained and communities strengthened through workforce development.”

The full list of award winners and additional background information is available here.

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The Michigan Works! Association is committed to advocating for a strong, skilled workforce in Michigan. Representing Michigan’s statewide Michigan Works! system, the Association supports collaboration among workforce development agencies, businesses, educators, and policymakers to ensure the state’s workforce remains competitive in a global economy.

Contact: Andrea Kerbuski, 517-290-2767 — Download article here