NEWS

Guest User 4/1/21 Guest User 4/1/21

Oakland County Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize former Oak Park resident Darius May, as well as Witzenmann USA, and Oakland County Michigan Works!.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Oakland County talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

Darius May was described by many as a hard worker. May joined Witzenmann USA, a leading manufacturer of flexible metal parts for a variety of industries, in 2013 as a general operator. Later, he rose to the position of setter where he was responsible for changing over tools, minor troubleshooting and training other employees.

To travel to and from work, May relied upon a vehicle that needed repairs and was not safe to drive. During this time, May connected with the Business Resource Network (BRN) provided to Witzenmann USA by Oakland County Michigan Works! and the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLSHA). Through the BRN, the success coach assigned to the program was able to assist May in applying for vehicle repair assistance through a local foundation that focuses on improving the lives of individuals and families in times of crisis. May’s application was approved, and the foundation paid for the requested car repairs on his behalf.

The partnership between Oakland County Michigan Works! And OLHSA has allowed businesses like Witzenmann USA to benefit from services offered by the BRN. This contracted service allows for organizations to maintain their workforce and assist employees with overcoming personal and professional barriers that may hinder them from being successful, such as May and his lack of steady transportation to work.

“I am honored to work with a business that values their employees and actively seeks out innovative ways to support them,” said OLHSA BRN Success Coach Nykol Baker. “As a member of the Oakland County BRN, Witzenmann USA embraces the holistic approach of viewing employees as not only respected team members, but also as treasured members of their family and our community. When something has negatively impacted an employee, Witzenmann USA cares and puts great effort into assisting their employees. Witzenmann USA shines as an employer who is committed to the well-being, safety, and happiness of their employees.”

Today, the services offered through Oakland County Michigan Works! and OLHSA’s Business Resource Network continue to have a positive impact on the individuals they serve such as May.

Sadly, May passed away unexpectedly in 2020. May is survived by his fiancé Laurinda Jefferson and his three daughters, Logan, Laycie and Lillie, as well as his parents, siblings and other family members.

The Impact Awards hosted by Michigan Works! Association recognize the economic development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.

“The Business Resource Network was central to supporting Darius and I was very saddened to learn of his passing,” said state Rep. Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park). “The assistance the Business Resource Network offers to jobseekers in our community is key to helping them overcome extremely difficult barriers to succeed in their career goals and aspirations.”

Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners from across the state.

The Michigan Works! Association is a non-profit membership organization that provides services and support to Michigan’s talent eco-system. For over 30 years, the Association has been the go-to resource for federal, state and local workforce initiatives.

“I am pleased to see community partners collaborating to bring talent and economic prosperity to our region,” said state Rep. Padma Kuppa (D-Troy). “The daily effort Oakland County Michigan Works! puts into coordinating with local employers and other partners makes all the difference in talent development in this area.”

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 4/1/21 Guest User 4/1/21

Northeast Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Albie’s Foods, Inc. and the Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium for using the Business Resource Network to help workers retain their jobs and overcome barriers.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Northeast Michigan talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

From recruitment, retention and career exploration, Albie’s Foods, Inc. shares a common vision for workforce success with Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium.

As a true champion employer, Albie’s Foods has continuously supported Michigan Works! initiatives designed to best support and strengthen not only the workforce at Albie’s Foods, but of the local area as well. Over the past few years, Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium has assisted Albie’s Foods in a variety of ways including recruiting, retention, career exploration, and long-term planning.

Albie’s Foods was a key member of Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium’s Business Resource Network “Safety Net WORKS!” during its initial year. Their active participation and feedback as a subscribing employer helped clear a path for countless workers across Otsego County to receive the assistance they needed to retain their positions and overcome barriers. As a result of their commitment and dedication to their employees, Albie’s Foods is proud to say, in over 30 years of business, the company has never had a layoff.

Albie’s Foods has been an essential business during this COVID-19 crisis, manufacturing over 9 million sandwiches for Feeding America. The company donated sandwiches to the local schools as well as the hotels that were offering to help feed people in the area. Albie’s Foods also took the initiative to feed the volunteers lunch from local restaurants that were delivering food around the county. To keep up with demand, Albie’s Foods implemented a second shift this year.

While giving back throughout the pandemic, Albie’s Foods has shown their commitment to investing in future talent while giving back to those in need. Because of the actions taken during this nationwide crisis, Albie’s Foods is deemed a valuable community partner.

“The pandemic has been especially difficult for the food service industry,” said state Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord). “Kudos to Albie’s Foods for going above and beyond during the pandemic to help provide food to those in need in their community.”

The Impact Awards hosted by Michigan Works! Association recognizes the economic development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.

“Economic development is key to creating growth in our region and throughout the state,” said state Sen. Jim Stamas (R-Midland). “Albie’s Foods has proven to be a great partner in creating good jobs in northern Michigan and as a leader in the community.”

Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.

The Michigan Works! Association is a non-profit membership organization that provides services and support to Michigan’s talent ecosystem. For over 30 years, the Association has been the go-to resource for federal, state and local workforce initiatives.

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 4/1/21 Guest User 4/1/21

Southwest Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Lawton resident Mary Shinabargar, White Oaks Assisted Living and Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren, Powered by Kinexus, for providing essential training through the creation of an apprenticeship program in order to meet the talent demand in a fast-growing job sector.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Southwest Michigan talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

White Oaks Assisted Living is a vibrant assisted living community in the heart of Lawton, MI employing over 50 individuals an offering state-of-the-art assisted living, memory, and respite care to its residents.

White Oaks is an essential community asset for Van Buren County as the population is three years older than the state average and the healthcare sector is expected to grow at 44 percent over the next five years. This expected growth means the challenge moving forward for healthcare providers such as White Oaks, is to be able to meet the demand for services from the community while also maintaining the high level of quality and service expected from its residents.

Executive Director Jill Pride has been a leader and innovator for White Oaks in recognizing the need to create a well-trained supply of talent to support the future growth of the business. Over the last 18 months, Pride and her team have engaged the Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren team to help create and launch an entry-level registered apprenticeship program for certified nursing assistants.

Mary Shinabargar is a long-term employee of White Oaks and a member of the first cohort of the CNA Apprenticeship Program established in fall 2019. Prior to starting the apprenticeship, Shinabargar worked as a Resident Caregiver. Earlier in her career, Shinabargar was licensed as a CNA, but after her license lapsed, she was eager to begin training.

Shinabargar’s classes at Southwestern Michigan College were held during her off-shift, allowing her to keep to her regular work schedule and pursue credentialing simultaneously. Despite 12- to 14-hour days between work, classes, and homework, she achieved her goal of becoming state certified in January 2020. During the pandemic, Shinabargar persevered and completed her Dementia Care Specialist and Restorative Care Specialist certificates – the final requirements of her apprenticeship in April 2020.

“Mary was a great fit to go through the apprenticeship with Michigan Works!,” said Pride. “We are so pleased to have her as part of the caring staff at White Oaks. Her successes make us a better place and we are happy to see her take that next professional step!”

In addition to the creation and development of the apprenticeship program, White Oaks continues to work with Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren to support additional opportunities such as Going PRO Talent Fund, WIOA, and other state and federal grants. As a result, 15 percent of their workforce have become registered apprentices, gaining industry-recognized credentials and an average 24.5 percent wage increase.

The Impact Awards hosted by Michigan Works! Association, recognize the economic development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.

“This thriving apprenticeship program, and Mary’s success, illustrate that investing in talent development is essential to recruit and attract the best talent in the region,” said state Sen. Aric Nesbitt (R-Lawton). “Congratulations to Mary, White Oaks Assisted Living and Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren on the success of this great apprenticeship program!”

Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.

“The success of this program is a testament to how community partners can work together to offer great career opportunities in our region,” said state Rep. Beth Griffin (R-Mattawan). “Thank you to Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren for providing talent solutions to help local companies and congratulations to everyone who worked hard to solve this talent gap.”

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 4/1/21 Guest User 4/1/21

Bay Area Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize local resident Joal Loughner, as well as Michigan Sugar Company and Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! for providing job seekers with opportunities to make advances in their education and career.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Bay Area talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

After his family dynamic changed, Loughner knew he needed to secure employment in order to help out his familiy financially. In search of a steady income, he reached out to Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! where he shared with staff that he had not completed high school.

To improve his chances of securing employment and earn steady wages, Loughner started attending the Michigan Works! Academic Center on a regular basis, even though he had no transportation. With intense instruction from the Academic Center instructor, he earned his High School Equivalency (HSE) Certificate. It was a proud day when he brought a copy of it to share with his partners at Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works!.

Following the completion of his HSE Certificate, Loughner began working with is career manager to create an effective, professional resume while learning interview techniques. He continued his dedicated quest for employment by spending time with staff at Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! to search and apply for jobs. It was through these Michigan Works! services that he landed his first-ever paycheck from Michigan Sugar Company as a research laborer.

“I was very proud to share my HSE Certificate and first ever paycheck with my career manager and Academic Center instructor,” said Loughner. “I enjoy my job at Michigan Sugar, and am pleased to have full-time employment. I am very thankful for the support and assistance provided to me by Michigan Works!.”

Michigan Sugar Company is committed to growing Michigan’s talent pipeline by investing in individuals searching for work, like Loughner. Through initiatives such as robust apprenticeship programs, on-the-job training, internal and external classes and seminars, Michigan Sugar Company enhances their employee’s skills, knowledge, and capabilities to strengthen the community and individuals like Loughner.

“Joal is an excellent example of someone who put in the hard work and dedication to overcome multiple barriers to earn his High School Equivalency certificate, gain a new skill, and start a new career in Michigan,” said state Sen. Kevin Daley (R-Arcadia Township). “Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! does a great job of working closely with local companies to assist residents in our region with reaching their career goals.”

“Congratulations to the team at Michigan Sugar Company for working closely with Michigan Works! to continue to grow Michigan’s talent pipeline,” said state Rep. Timothy Beson (R-Kawkawlin). “Their dedication to offering initiatives that help employees learn new skills is key to not only having a successful business but also to ensuring the success of Michigan residents.”

Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 4/1/21 Guest User 4/1/21

Detroit Area Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Stellantis, Detroit At Work, and Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation for their commitment to Detroiters through hiring initiatives to fill in-demand jobs and build a strong talent pipeline within the City of Detroit.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Detroit area Michigan talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

The partnership between Detroit At Work, powered by Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, and Stellantis started two years ago when the automotive company approached the City of Detroit with a plan to build the first new assembly plant in the city in 30 years and make a substantial investment in their existing Detroit facility.

Stellantis’ long-standing commitment to the city and its residents was highly prevalent in the plan as the company prioritized Detroiters during the application and interview processes for the nearly 5,000 jobs that would become available.

The partnership grew as Detroit At Work created the infrastructure for recruiting, vetting, and connecting candidates to Stellantis. Additionally, Detroit At Work developed an entire suite of support services to address any barriers to employment that a job seeker could face including access to technology, high school completion, access to childcare, additional coaching to prepare for the application and interview process and transportation assistance. As a result, more than 4,100 Detroiters received job offers, with interviews continuing to take place.

“Congratulations to Stellantis, Detroit At Work, and DESC on winning the Impact Award,” said state Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit). “So many of our families are struggling right now and putting more Detroiters to work or in better paying jobs is a positive step for our communities. I am hopeful to see continued efforts to prioritize the hiring of Detroiters and enhance and improve efforts to support and protect residents of nearby neighborhoods.”

The Impact Awards hosted by Michigan Works! Association recognizes economic development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.

“I commend Stellantis for working closely with the City of Detroit and Detroit At Work to improve the lives of our residents,” said state Rep. Joe Tate (D-Detroit). “The extra effort Detroit At Work put into developing support services to address the specific barriers Detroit residents are facing was key to making this effort such a great success.”

Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.

“We are honored to receive this award as it recognizes our efforts to keep the commitment we made to the city and its residents to put Detroiters first,” said Ron Stallworth, senior manager, State and Local Government Relations, Stellantis. “In fact, we are pleased that 2,100 Detroit residents have been hired to join the team at the Detroit Assembly Complex – Mack plant to build the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee L. As a result of our strong partnerships with area residents, this project will have lasting benefits for the entire community.”

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1 800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 4/1/21 Guest User 4/1/21

NE Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Lear Corporation – Farwell Plant and the Michigan Works! Region 7B Consortium for adapting to meet the professional and personal needs of employees.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Northeastern Michigan talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

In March 2019, Business Solutions Professional Pam O’Laughlin met with the entire management team at Lear Corporation – Farwell to address a 98 percent turnover rate of production employees. At this meeting, the team identified areas of concern. To address the issues identified, Lear Corporation implemented new practices and procedures. As a result, the hiring process was revised to include additional screening and testing criteria, a more intensive week-long orientation was developed, and the company made leadership training for floor leads a priority.

Additionally, Lear Corporation – Farwell was the first employer in the Michigan Works! Region 7B area to implement The Network -- a business resource program. This program brought a Success Coach into the plant each week to assist employees. The Success Coach was able to assist Lear Corporation employees by identifying barriers, providing resources, coordinating with HR staff to offer training solutions and mitigation, and, overall, reducing turnover.

“Working with Pam O’Laughlin and her knowledgeable team has been a great experience that has helped to make our plant a better place to work,” said Lear Corporation – Farwell Human Resources Manager Lisa Fredrickson. “Working with Vicky Stickler in the Business Resource Network program is an excellent tool that has made our ability to meet the needs of our workforce more comprehensive than ever before. That is why it has been an easy choice for us to utilize MIchigan Works! Region 7B. We look forward to continuing to work with Pam and Vicky through Michigan Works! Region 7B and the Middle Michigan Development Corporation far into the future.”

In October 2019, a primary customer of Lear Corporation went on strike, causing a massive lay off at the Lear Corporation – Farwell plant. Management carefully and thoughtfully structured a layoff plan to enable employees to keep their health insurance coverage active by reporting to work for four hours each week. This also made it possible for employees to continue to be eligible for unemployment insurance while on the reduced work schedule. As a result of these actions, Lear did not lose a single employee.

Lear Corporation has continued to tackle any challenges that arise. When the pandemic brough on another layoff for Lear, management worked remotely to provide support for their employees and assistance with help from Michigan Works! Region 7B and the Network.

When all three shifts were able to return to work, safety protocols were significantly enhanced at the plant and management staff worked to find solutions for any challenges that arose, including changes to attendance to improve the work/life balance of their employees. These changes have made a significant difference in employee morale and the employee turnover.

To address the 98 percent turnover rate, management at Lear Corporation – Farwell took the necessary actions needed to improve their company morale while reducing the turnover rate.

“It’s exciting to see how the Business Resource Network program is supporting the growth of talent in our region,” said state Sen. Rick Outman (R-Six Lakes). “Kudos to Lear Corporation for implementing this important program so they could effectively address their turnover rate.”

The Impact Awards hosted by the Michigan Works! Association recognizes the economic development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.

Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners from across the state.

“I am pleased to see community partners collaborating to preserve economic prosperity in our region and excited to have this award in my hometown of Farwell,” said state Rep. Jason Wentworth (R-Farwell). “The daily effort Michigan Works! Region 7B puts into coordinating with local employers and other partners makes all the difference in talent development and retention in this area.”

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 1/28/21 Guest User 1/28/21

Statement from the Michigan Works! Association on Governor Whitmer’s 2021 State of the State Address

Michigan Works! Network Supports Governor’s Michigan Back to Work Effort and Call for Legislature to Extend Good Jobs for Michigan

LANSING, MI (Jan 28, 2021) – Luann Dunsford, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association released the following statement in response to Governor Whitmer’s State of the State address:

“We applaud the Governor’s continued commitment to the goal of 60 percent of Michigan’s residents earning a post-secondary credential or degree by 2030 and are supportive of the announcement of her new Michigan Back to Work effort to grow both good paying jobs for Michigan residents and the state’s economy.

“Additionally, Michigan Works! supports the Governor’s request of the Michigan legislature to extend the Good Jobs for Michigan program. The Michigan Works! Association is a member of the Good Jobs for Michigan coalition and a strong supporter of its mission of advancing economic development tools and efforts to strengthen Michigan and secure good-paying jobs for our families, community, and future.

“The Michigan Works! network stands ready to support the Governor in both these economic development efforts. The services provided by the Michigan Works! network are key to helping job seekers and employers recover from the damage done to the state’s economy by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's talent development system. For more information, visit http://www.michiganworks.org, or call (517) 371-1100.

Guest User 9/23/20 Guest User 9/23/20

Michigan Works! Applauds Lawmakers and Administration for Including Going PRO Talent Fund Money in FY 2021 State Budget

Luann Dunsford, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association released the following statement in response to the inclusion of $28.7 million for the Going PRO Talent Fund program in the Fiscal Year 2021 state budget proposal

LANSING, MI (September 23, 2020) – Luann Dunsford, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association released the following statement in response to the inclusion of $28.7 million for the Going PRO Talent Fund program in the Fiscal Year 2021 state budget proposal:

“We applaud the Michigan legislature and the administration for their commitment to including money to the FY 2021 state budget in order to continue providing grants to Michigan businesses so they can provide critical training for both current employees and new hires.

“The $28.7 million included in the FY 2021 state budget will be awarded to employers across the state to help them meet the challenges they have with locating, training and retaining the talent needed to remain competitive with other states as well as around the world.

“Since the inception of the Talent Fund program in 2014, nearly $100 million has been awarded to more than 3,000 businesses across the state, resulting in the retention of 72,542 jobs.

“The need for highly-skilled talent has never been greater in our state. The COVID-19 crisis has created an even greater need for reskilling and retraining dollars for Michiganders. Many Michigan residents are now facing situations in which they will need to pursue a completely different career path and this funding will go a long way toward helping with that situation. Going PRO Talent Fund has proven to be one of the most effective resources available to address Michigan’s talent crisis.

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Guest User 9/18/20 Guest User 9/18/20

Local Talent Development Leader Vicky Stickler Honored by Michigan Works! Association

Vicky Stickler of Michigan Works! Region 7B Consortium was awarded a “Shining Star” Award by the Michigan Works! Association for her efforts to meet employment needs in Arenac, Clare, and Gladwin counties. Stickler recently received the award during the Association’s annual conference.

LANSING, Mich. (Sep 16, 2020) – Vicky Stickler of Michigan Works! Region 7B Consortium was awarded a “Shining Star” Award by the Michigan Works! Association for her efforts to meet employment needs in Arenac, Clare, and Gladwin counties. Stickler recently received the award during the Association’s annual conference.

Stickler is a tremendous asset to the workforce development system both locally and across county lines.

“Vicky is the true definition of going the extra mile,” said Luann Dunsford, chief executive officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “She believes that anything is possible, and nothing is out of reach.”

Stickler has a reputation for going above and beyond to assist her clients, treating each one with care and respect.

“As a talent specialist working within the business community, Vicky works unconventional hours in order to reach as many workers as possible to assist with their needs,” said Mark Berdan, executive director of Michigan Works! Region 7B Consortium. “Vicky uses her approachable personality and persistence to ensure that workers overcome their barriers and are successful at their jobs.”

Stickler said she is honored to receive this award.

“I am honored to receive this award as I feel that many in our organization go above and beyond,” said Stickler. “Michigan’s workforce, and those who employ them, are vital to the success of our local communities, so it is a privilege to assist our area employers, their employees, and thereby, their families.”

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Guest User 9/18/20 Guest User 9/18/20

Local Talent Development Leader Thomas Luck Honored by Michigan Works! Associatio

Thomas Luck of Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works was awarded a “Shining Star” Award by the Michigan Works! Association for his efforts to meet employment needs in Bay, Gratiot, Isabella, Midland, and Saginaw counties.

LANSING, Mich. (Sep 16, 2020) – Thomas Luck of Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works was awarded a “Shining Star” Award by the Michigan Works! Association for his efforts to meet employment needs in Bay, Gratiot, Isabella, Midland, and Saginaw counties.

Luck recently received the award during the Association’s annual conference. He serves as the IT director for the region.

“Thomas has an unwavering commitment to bringing out the best in everyone,” said Luann Dunsford, chief executive officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “He demonstrates a notable passion and dedication for serving jobseekers in his community and his coworkers recognize him as a team player who is committed to success and is always willing to step in and help.”

Luck has proven to be a tremendous asset to the team at Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works since joining the team in early 2020.

“His impact on our region was immediate and wide reaching,” said Chris Rishko, CEO of Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works!. “Tom was instrumental in providing the IT infrastructure required to meet the unprecedented demands of virtual service delivery. His expertise and dedication were integral to seamless continuation of our essential operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Luck said he is honored to receive this award.

“Our success at Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! is the direct result of our entire team coming together and doing what it takes to achieve great things regardless of the challenges put in front of us,” said Luck. “I look forward to continued success working with the team at Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works!”

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NEWS

Michigan Works! Association | mwassociation@michiganworks.org