NEWS

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

West 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 Twin Lake resident Hunter Daniels, as well as Sanctuary at the McAuley – a division of Trinity Health/Mercy Health, and West Michigan Works! for aiding frontline workers with the training needed to be successful in a high-demand career field.

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

Less than two years ago, Hunter Daniels was unemployed with no direction or plan for the future. Today, Daniels is a driven, energetic and determined young man, thirsty for personal growth.

Daniels’ life direction changed when his family sent him to West Michigan Works!. During this time, Daniels received supportive services to resolve transportation issues and worked with his career coach on employability skills.

After receiving crucial services from West Michigan Works!, it didn’t take long to gain confidence and find employment in the produce department at Meijer. During this time, Daniels participated in Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) workshops, talent tours, community service projects and continued to meet with his career coach. He took advantage of ever leadership development opportunity made available to him.

After he received a training scholarship to attend Muskegon Community College, Daniels earned his CNA certificate with the support of a West Michigan Works! ITA Scholarship. His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed as Daniels was named valedictorian of his CNA class.

Daniels obtained employment with a local health system, Sanctuary at McAuley, a leading advocate of faith-based, people-centered health care. This not only helped Sanctuary at McAuley fill a critical need for CNAs, but the employment, training and leadership skills that Daniels gained have had a tremendous impact on his life.

Daniels is considered a true frontline hero. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Daniels continued his employment at both Meijer and Sanctuary at McAuley. Because of his service, Daniels is a proud recipient of a Futures for Frontliners Scholarship, a step he hopes will help him fulfill his dream of obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

“The West Michigan Works! JMG program has made an enormous difference for me, because if it wasn’t for JMG, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” said Daniels. “I am employed with two jobs, am a certified CNA, and I am becoming self-sufficient and career bound. I am confident in myself and my future because of JMG. I was a kid with a dream, now I am a kid with a plan!”

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 partnership West Michigan Works! has with its community partners is key to assisting residents achieve their career goals,” said state Sen. Jon Bumstead (R-Newaygo). “No barrier is insurmountable for West Michigan Works!. The dedication West Michigan Works! has for helping our residents overcome significant barriers makes them a huge asset to our community.”

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

“Certified Nursing Assistants are in high demand across our state,” said state Rep. Terry Sabo (D-Laketon Township). “The CNA program offered through Muskegon Community College coupled with the ITA Scholarship offered by West Michigan Works! not only helps get individuals working quickly, but also puts them on a path to a career opportunity in health care. Congratulations to everyone receiving this prestigious award today!”

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.

“Congratulations to Hunter on winning this prestigious award,” said state Rep. Greg VanWoerkom. “Hunter’s dedication and pursuit of a career to create a better life for him and others is an inspiring story. He used the resources available to him through West Michigan Works! And now has a rewarding careering in front of him.”

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

Central 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 Irons resident Jacob Riggs, Lake County Road Commission, and Michigan Works! West Central for investing in young talent through initiatives to support high-skilled, high-wage job sectors.

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

At a young age, Jacob Riggs enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together. At age 11, he took apart his first engine to see how it worked and he was hooked!

Now 19 years old, Riggs has taken his passion for using his hands and turned it into a budding successful career as a mechanic for the Lake County Road Commission (LCRC). Riggs, who just bought his first home in northwestern Lake County, graduated from the Heavy Equipment Mechanic program at a nearby Career Technical Education center in spring 2019. After searching for work throughout the summer, he successfully interviews for a position as a mechanic with the Road Commission. However, he needed an additional credential before he could start working. The Road Commission was so impressed with Riggs’ interview and capability as a mechanic that they offered to hold the position for him while he completed training to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

"Jacob’s personality helped him stand out,” said Leroy Williams, LCRC Operations Manager. “When he came into the interview, he was really upbeat and engaging. He did well on the practical test, especially for a young as he is.”

Riggs came to Michigan Works! West Central in mid-October to see about tuition assistance to earn his CDL though the six-week program at Pinnacle Truck Driver Training in Cadillac. He completed training by mid-December and started work at the Road Commission in early January 2020, earning $16.81 per hour.

“Jacob was a pleasure to work with,” said Connie Aalderink, Talent Specialist at Michigan Works! West Central. “He has a true talent and love for diesel mechanics. When I met Jacob, he came into the office very motivated to start truck driving school. He’s a very motivated young man and is not afraid to go for what he wants.”

Hired at age 18 with a good-paying job, many teens would be satisfied, but Riggs wanted more. Within the first few months of his employment, he had successfully taken the tests to obtain his Heavy Equipment Mechanic Master Certification through the State of Michigan, and he has plans to earn additional automotive mechanic certifications.

“I enjoy what I do because it’s something new every day,” said Riggs. “Working at the Road Commission, we have more than 100 pieces of equipment that we work on. I really enjoy it! I’m thankful for all the help from Michigan Works! to get me to this point and get my CDL training going. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn't have been able to do it.”

“Jacob is a great example of what can be achieved if you work hard and refuse to give up,” said state Sen. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington). “His hard work, dedication, and positive attitude helped him achieve his career goals. Congratulations on winning this prestigious award, Jacob!”

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

“Michigan Works! West Central has the tools to help Michiganders achieve their career goals and I want to congratulate the entire team at Michigan Works West Central for helping change outcomes for our residents every day,” said state Rep. Scott VanSingel (R-Grant). “Congratulations to Jacob for working hard to achieve your dreams and build a rewarding career.”

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

U.P. Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Jacquart Fabric Products and Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! for providing essential equipment to businesses around the state during a crisis.

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

Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! Recognizes the significant role Jacquart Fabric Products (JFP) plays within their local community and beyond.

Based in Ironwood, MI, the fabric production company employs more than 90 Midwesterners to make everything from industrial covers to kids’ playset canopies, as well as managing Stormy Kromer, home to the iconic cap. Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! Collaborates with JFP to fill current talent needs, build the talent pipeline and lead community-based efforts to support the economic vitality of their community to ensure a strong, resilient economy in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

When the pandemic hit, JFP took immediate action in helping those beyond their local community. At the pandemic’s onset, JFP received an urgent voicemail from UW Health System in Madison, WI asking if JFP could make 50,000 masks as soon as possible from a pattern they had to protect frontline workers. JFP blew expectations away when they produced nearly 5,000 masks per day for the Wisconsin organization.

"Everybody on our team pitched in without hesitation,” said Stormy Kromer President Gina Jacquart Thorsen. “They came in on weekends and worked 10-hour days. Our HR person took customer orders, the marketing manager learned to sew so she could help, customer service representatives became janitors, and my dad and I were on the floor sewing.”

Soon after, a downstate hospital system, Bronson Battle Creek, requested 6,000 gowns for their frontline staff. In less than 20 days, JFP designed the gowns, retooled their processes, and delivered the first shipment to Bronson. Then came the order from Trinity Health in Livonia for 100,000 gowns. Although JFP didn’t have the capacity to do it themselves, Bob Jacquart’s years of relationship-building paid off. They quickly coordinated with several other sewing contractors to get the job done.

CEO of Jacquart Fabric Products, Bob Jacquart, sees this years’ experience as a perfect reflection of doing business in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

“Here in the Upper Peninsula, we are at our best when challenges hit,” said Jacquart. “We are resilient, responsive, and adaptable. We will go the extra mile for our colleagues, our customers, or even a competitor if they are in need. The only reason we could respond the way we did was because of our people. They are like all the Michigan workers who help keep the wheels turning – hardworking, dedicated, and skilled.”

Life changed when the pandemic hit, but this Upper Peninsula company did not let the virus win. JFP rose to the occasion and showed the country what an impact a homegrown, family-owned Upper Peninsula company can make.

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.

“A huge thank you to Jacquart Fabric Products for their support of fellow Midwesterners during the pandemic,” said state Sen. Ed McBroom (R-Waucedah). “The company’s willingness to shift gears and provide assistance in producing personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical facilities in Michigan and Wisconsin is greatly appreciated!”

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

“The dedication the employees of JFP showed to doing whatever it takes to help those in the greatest need during a crisis is something to be applauded,” said state Rep. Greg Markkanen (R-Hancock). “JFP is an important company in our community and we truly appreciate their willingness to pitch in whatever way needed when times get tough.”

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 Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Augusta resident Alia Hammond, as well as Kalamazoo Public Schools and Michigan Works! Southwest for providing employees with opportunities to make advancements in both their professional and personal lives.

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.

Alia Hammond was referred to Michigan Works! Southwest’s Food Assistance Employment & Training (FAE&T) program in Spring 2019. While discussion her employment goals with her Career Coach, Hammond disclosed difficulties and concerns related to obtaining employment due to her legal identification listing her birth name which was not reflective of her own name or identity and often resulted in the need for her to share very personal information during employment interviews.

“I believe we all learned a lot through Alia’s story and her journey,” said Jim Hollis, Hammond’s career coach. “I sat with her in the courtroom the day the judge officially signed her documents. As we walked into the courtroom and waited, Alia was nervous and uneasy. After the judge signed all the documents, I will never forget the way she walked out of the courtroom and the confidence she portrayed. Alia is a participant I will never forget. I am glad we all had a chance to help positively impact her life.”

Due to having to constantly validate her identity, Hammond felt she was not able to move forward personally or professionally. Though the routine of continuously having to define herself to others often hurt her self-esteem and confidence, the process of changing her legal identity had proved to be a burdensome and complicated process for Hammond which she had, up until then, been reluctant to undertake.

While participating in the FAE&T program, a variety of program and administrative staff worked to review federal, state and local policies to determine what services were available to assist Hammond in updating her identification and the necessary steps to legally change her name. Eventually, with support and guidance from Michigan Works! Southwest staff, Hammond, was able to successfully change her legal name and obtain a new birth certificate, social security card, and Michigan ID.

While participating in the program, Hammond also completed a variety of job-readiness workshops, volunteered at OutFront Kalamazoo, and gained ServSafe certification, leading Hammond to obtain employment through Kalamazoo Public Schools Food Service Program.

“Congratulations to Alia on her dedication to overcoming difficult barriers to achieve her career goals,” said state Sen. Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo).

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.

“I commend Michigan Works! Southwest on being a great community partner who is always looking for innovative ways to help residents find training and career opportunities,” said state Rep. Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo). “This is a win for students, employers, community organizations, and our community as a whole.”

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

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

Southeast 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 Jackson resident Darkus Worthey, as well as America's Preferred Home Warranty and Michigan Works! Southeast for providing on-the-job training to workers interested in gaining the necessary experience needed to further their careers.

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

America’s Preferred Home Warranty (APHW) has worked closely with Michigan Works! Southeast for more than 10 years. Over the years, APHW has turned to Michigan Works! Southeast for assistance with Going PRO Talent Fund applications, On-the-Job Training grants and recruiting tactics. As a result, APHW has proven to be a strong asset to the community and for individuals like Darkus Worthey.

Worthey grew up in Jackson and attended Jackson College on and off only when she could afford tuition. In 2000, Worthey’s life changed when she welcomed a daughter. Between 2001 and 2003, Worthey returned to college at the University of Phoenix in hopes of earning a degree. Unfortunately, the responsibilities of being a single mother required Worthey to work full-time, putting her education on hold.

Over the years, Worthey maintained multiple full-time and part-time jobs to make ends meet. In 2012, she decided to register at Baker College, determined to get her degree in Accounting. However, the credits she had earned at the University of Phoenix were non-transferrable and she was forced to start over. Despite this barrier, Worthey persisted and graduated from Baker College with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 2015.

Unfortunately, the challenges kept coming. To her surprise, Worthey was unable to find employment in the accounting field due to her lack of experience. In order to earn a steady paycheck, Worthey continued to work in an unrelated field until she lost her full-time job after the company closed its doors. Once again, Worthey faced another challenge.

In order to overcome the latest roadblock in her life, Worthey kept going. While participating in the PATH: Partnership. Accountability. Training. Hope program, Michigan Works! Southeast was able to place her in On-the-Job Training at America’s Preferred Home Warranty in the Accounting Department working in Accounts Receivable. Through the OJT program, Worthey gained the skills and experience needed to gain employment in the accounting field.

At the end of the OJT contract, Worthey was hired full-time with APHW. Since her employment, she has earned attendance awards at APHW and has been promoted.

“APHW is a staple in our region and I’m proud of the way they have partnered with Michigan Works! to further the education of local residents as well as providing good-paying career opportunities,” said state Sen. Mike Shirkey, (R-Clarklake).

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.

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

“In a year where there were so many extra barriers to overcome, I applaud Darkus for her persistence and dedication to completing her bachelor’s degree,” said state Rep. Sarah Lightner (R-Springport). “As a former board member for Michigan Works! Southeast I also want to thank them for continuing to help prepare our talented workers for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”

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

Northwest Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize John Mistura, Boyne Resorts, and Northwest Michigan Works! for developing a comprehensive apprenticeship program to help prepare individuals for successful careers.

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

Boyne Resorts, North Central Michigan College, the American Culinary Federation (ACF), and Northwest Michigan Works! partnered to develop a culinary apprenticeship program offering a unique interactive learning experience with executive chef mentors. The apprentices will achieve their Sous Chef certification along with a Department of Labor National Credential and a Hospitality Certificate.

“Boyne Resorts is proud to partner with Northwest Michigan Works! as we provide unique services for our team members including registered apprenticeship and Business Resource Network programs,” said Amanda Bomers, human resources director at Boyne Highlands. “Our organizations share similar goals with a focus on demand-driven services for our workforce and the entire community.”

The culinary apprenticeship includes 4,000 hours of comprehensive On-the-Job Training along with 525 hours of related technical instruction. There are currently seven apprentices in the program and Boyne Resorts is currently recruiting a second cohort.

One of the current apprentices is John Mistura. His career at Boyne started in 2015 as a line cook. When Boyne initiated the Sous Chef Apprenticeship recruitment process, Mistura saw it as an opportunity to upskill and launch his career pathway in the culinary field. He had never really considered this type of career yet was drawn to the education and mentoring the apprenticeship offered.

As Mistura progressed through the program, he realized the many benefits of the apprenticeship including his new network of contacts and friends while learning about food.

“Learning about the nutritional value of food was life changing,” said Mistura. “How to cook it appropriately while maintaining the flavor and nutritional value is interesting.”

As Mistura continues his success, he is enthusiastic to mentor a new cohort of apprentices and is Boyne’s most influential spokesperson for the benefits of the training.

“Seeing my progress from where I started to where I am now is my favorite part of the program,” said Mistura.

The Impact Awards, hosted by the 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.

“Northwest Michigan Works! continues to show time and again that they are committed to understanding the unique needs of our region and then using that knowledge in ways that help employers and job seekers alike succeed,” said state Sen. Wayne Schmidt (R-Traverse City). “Their dedication to working closely with community partners is key to ensuring the economic success of our region.”

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

“I commend Boyne Resorts, North Central Michigan College, the American Culinary Federation, and Northwest Michigan Works! for their partnership on this great program that helps fill the need for high-demand jobs in our region,” said state Rep. John Damoose (R-Harbor Springs). “Congratulations to John on accomplishing his goals and to the team at Northwest Michigan Works! for all they do to assist the residents in our community with their needs and career goals.”

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

Macomb/St. Clair Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Macomb County resident Ray Lane and Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!.

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

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Macomb County resident Ray Lane and Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!.

Following job loss due to addiction and substance abuse, Ray Lane spent time in a residential treatment center. It was here that he connected with a peer coach who supported him on an individual recovery plan that included returning to the workforce.

One of the first steps in the plan was enrollment in the Peer Employment Opportunity Program (PSEOP), a U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) grant-funded project administered by the Macomb/St. Clair Workforce Development Board. The PSEOP is designed to assist individuals in Macomb County with a history of opiod use that impacts their ability to gain employment or keep a job. Locally, it is offered in partnership with CARE of Southeastern Michigan, Macomb County Community Corrections, and Macomb County Circuit Court- Drug Court. Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! staff provided Ray with job placement assistance and case management that resulted in an On-the-Job Training (OJT) position with a reaction injection molding company.

Hired as a material handler, Ray successfully completed 480 hours of training funded with the PSEOP grant. He has retained employment with the company since June 2020 and has received an 8.5 percent pay increase. The human resources manager for his employer said Ray is a great addition to their team and due to his strong work ethic and work history has surpassed their expectations as a team member.

“Substance use is no longer a part of my life,” said Lane. “Michigan Works! helped me to return to work and get on a good path that contributed to my sobriety structure in life.”

Lane’s progress has been supported with weekly meetings with his Peer Coach, Emily Kinzy, from CARE of Southeastern Michigan.

“Ray kept showing up for himself, putting his recovery first,” Kinzy said. “He is determined and wants to do well. Working with both Michigan Works! and regularly with his recovery coach, showed that he was dedicated to success.”

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.

“I commend Ray for his strength and devotion to overcoming some of the toughest barriers in existence,” said state Rep. Doug Wozniak (R-Shelby Township). “It is so great to see that the Peer Supported Employment Opportunity Program is working so well and helping individuals like Ray successfully recover from substance abuse and return to the workforce.”

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

Local Workforce 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 Dan Morgan, Huron Inc., and GST Michigan Works! for investing in the knowledge and skillset of employees through programs such as apprenticeship, On-the-Job Training contracts, and Going PRO Talent Fund.

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

As a leading manufacturer of complex tubular assemblies and precision machined products for the automotive industry, Huron Inc. has been a cornerstone of the Lexington and Worth Township communities for decades. Approximately 40 percent of their staff have been with Huron Inc. For over 20 years, and several have retired with over 40 years of service. Huron Inc.’s strong sense of community engagement and support has not gone unnoticed during times of adversity.

After the company experienced a catastrophic fire a few years ago, neighboring manufacturers invited Huron Inc. to utilize their open spaces, allowing the company to continue production and maintain their customer base. Following this setback, Huron Inc. not only rebuilt, but completed a 40,000 square foot expansion soon after.

Huron Inc.’s resilience and commitment to their employees have been evident throughout the COVID-19 crisis. After the pandemic temporarily derailed Huron Inc.’s goal of having 600 employees by 2021, the company rose to the challenge. Today, the company continues to hire new talent in order to bring their staff numbers up to pre-COVID levels.

Huron Inc. continues to partner with GST Michigan Works! to provide staffing and training support. With the help of GST Michigan Works!, Huron Inc. has enhanced their training efforts through On-the-Job (OJT) contracts, Incumbent Worker Training projects, Advance Michigan Catalyst, and Going PRO Talent Fund. Throughout these efforts, and various grant applications, GST Michigan Works! has provided Huron Inc. with well over $100,000 in value toward the growth and advancement of their employees.

Despite all challenges the company may face, Huron Inc. continues to invest in the knowledge and skillset of their staff through initiatives such as apprenticeship programs.

Dan Morgan, Jr. recently completed his apprenticeship and is now a Journeyman Tool Maker. He completed additional training and has been promoted to Machine Builder, which is the highest-paid position within the local union.

“Going through the Toolmaker apprenticeship has really brought out the best of my knowledge and skills,” said Morgan. “I really appreciate the opportunity I was given to better myself and my future.”

Morgan’s story is a prime example of everyone working together to bring about success for both the employer and the employee, reflecting the demand-driven model.

“The pandemic has unfortunately created new challenges and barriers for employers across the state,” said state Sen. Dan Lauwers (R-Brockway Township). “Kudos to Huron Inc. for enhancing their training efforts during this difficult time so they could continue to hire the talent they need.”

“Skilled trade employers are in great need of workers who will apply themselves in a way that will help the company succeed,” said state Rep. Andrew Beeler (R-Fort Gratiot). “I’m extremely proud of Dan and his accomplishments and wish him the best in the future. We are lucky to have GST Michigan Works! helping our residents reach their career goals.”

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

Capital 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 MWC and Capital Area Michigan Works! for promoting the importance of community partnerships and involvement through initiatives to benefit local residents and the overall community.

LANSING, MI (March 31, 2021)— Capital Area leadership in talent development through community partnerships were among the successes celebrated by state leaders at the first-ever virtual Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.

MWC is a large-scale cheese and whey protein manufacturing facility in St. Johns, MI. As a new joint venture between Dairy Farmers of America, Select Milk Producers, and Glanbia Nutritionals, who owns 50 percent of the venture. MWC understands the importance of creating relationships with existing manufacturing employers and local residents. As a result, MWC has prioritized community involvement and partnership.

In partnership with local workforce development organizations. Capital Area Michigan Works! Has assisted MWC in applying for Going PRO Talent Fund grants, developing recruitment strategies, establishing hiring requirements and providing MWC’s staff with information about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit as well as potential On-the-Job Training Grants. Additionally, MWC has partnered with other manufacturing companies to host job fairs and participated in local events all while welcoming the advice and guidance from partner organizations.

“Capital Area Michigan Works! Was supportive from day one in our hiring plans,” said Kate Studley, HR Business Partner for Glanbia Nutritionals. “They have assisted with making sure our rates were competitive for Michigan’s market. They helped with planning, advertising and assisting us in our two hiring fairs, as well as connecting us with multiple businesses and community connections, sending multiple candidates our way and hosting a virtual job fair. Capital Area Michigan Works! Has also made sure we were aware of Michigan grants and helped answer many questions along this journey. They also forwarded us any regulation changes with COVID-19 to ensure we were staying up to date in this new environment. Capital Area Michigan Works! Has been a resource to MWC during the early days of planning and hiring in MWC’s startup.”

While MWC is in the early stages of community involvement and giving back to the community, the organization has plans to meet the growing demand of their company while prioritizing the community.

The facility will soon be processing, on a daily basis, eight million pounds of milk, 800,000 pounds of American style cheeses and 350,000 pounds of whey powders. To meet this volume, the company will employ approximately 260 people in the greater St. John’s area. The 2.9 billion annual pounds of milk processed at the facility will come from over 20 percent of Michigan’s milk supply supporting hundreds of Michigan dairy farms.

“Capital Area Michigan Works! is a key partner for local businesses, and their collaboration helps ensure that talent needs are met in the best way possible,” said state Sen. Tom Barrett (R-Charlotte). “The work they have done, and continue to do, with MWC is key to providing great career opportunities in this region.”

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

Award winners included Michigan businesses, partners, employees and Michigan Works! organizations.

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

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

Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually on Wednesday, March 31 to recognize Westland resident Tyler Dwyer, as well as DWG Plumbing and Excavating, and the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) Michigan Works!.

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

After four years of service, Tyler Dwyer received an honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps and then decided to almost immediately re-enlist. However, it was during his second enlistment that Tyler ran into difficulties and was discharged for bad conduct.

DWG Plumbing and Excavating gave Dwyer an opportunity to turn things around. Having been in business in Southeast Michigan for over 30 years, owner Dan Griffin is always looking to hire veterans like Dwyer whenever possible. It was Griffin and DWG Plumbing and Excavating that gave Dwyer a life-changing opportunity.

“Growth comes from overcoming adversity and mistakes, not by simply avoiding blunders,” said Griffin.

After SEMCA Michigan Works! Identified Dwyer for the opportunity through the WIOA Adult program, DWG Plumbing and Excavating was given the opportunity to utilize On-the-Job Training (OJT) funds to save money through the reimbursement of wages during Dwyer’s training period.

"Michigan Works! was instrumental in helping me secure the job,” said Dwyer. “They checked on me on a regular basis, both verbally and in person, to see if I had any issues they could help with. They incorporated the On-the-Job Training contract to assist the employer in my initial hiring and training."

Within a little over a year, DWG Plumbing and Excavating took in a high-risk individual who has positioned himself well ahead of his peers. Dwyer’s perseverance to overcome personal problems led him to become a volunteer and a mentor to many. Because of his eagerness to succeed, Dwyer is on the fast track to earning his Journeyman’s card.

“The assistance Tyler received from SEMCA Michigan Works! helped him overcome significant barriers to earn a second chance,” said state Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor). “On-the-Job Training is a great tool to provide individuals with the opportunity to prove themselves and earn a full-time career position.”

“The dedication that SEMCA has to ensuring our region’s residents get the services and assistance they need is integral to making our community successful,” said state Rep. Kevin Coleman (D-Westland). “Tyler’s success story is just one of many that happen everyday thanks to Michigan Works!. Congratulations to everyone receiving this prestigious award!”

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

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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Michigan Works! Association | mwassociation@michiganworks.org