NEWS
Southwest Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Southwest Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Southwest Michigan
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022) — Southwest Michigan talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.
Lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize local resident Jazmine Carpenter, YWCA Kalamazoo, Southwest Child Care Resources, as well as Michigan Works! Southwest for developing a local talent pipeline initiative into early childhood education careers.
Jazmine Carpenter was enrolled in Michigan Works! Southwest WIOA Youth Services in Kalamazoo County on December 14, 2020. Her career goal was to obtain employment in early childhood education. However, her previous experience was in food service, so she was unsure how to proceed to make her dreams come true.
After she enrolled with WIOA Youth Services through Michigan Works! Southwest (Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU)), her career coach, Brandi Herrell, helped her identify her challenges to success and overcome those barriers. These barriers included being a parenting youth, having no driver’s license, lack of transportation, lack of interview clothing and appropriate work clothing, difficulty in developing and improving her self-esteem, lack of self-advocacy and leadership skills, difficulty applying for higher positions within organizations, and issues related to navigating difficult conversations in the workplace.
Carpenter has since secured daycare, participated in a seven-week virtual paid internship through Young Professionals programming to gain work experience, obtained and prepared for a professional interview, moved into more secure housing, and obtained interview clothes. She obtained her drivers’ license, has shown signs of an improved self-esteem, began advocating for herself and others, developed leadership skills, and continues to improve on navigating difficult conversations in the workplace.
While working with Herrell, her Career Coach, toward the next step in her career, there was a local initiative for developing a talent pipeline into early childhood education careers. As the employer, the YWCA began apprenticeship training Carpenter when she was hired in April 2021, and she started using her new skills when the center officially opened in September 2021.
Carpenter was quickly transitioned to a Lead Teacher position at the YWCA in August 2021. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, she will hold the nationally recognized CDA Certificate and the U.S. Department of Labor Early Childhood Education Certificate. She will also have nine experiential college credits through the Early Childhood Education Program at Kalamazoo Valley Community College as an incentive to continue her education and earn an Associate degree in the career pathway.
"My greatest dream and career goal in life is to open my own Head Start/Daycare facility,” said Carpenter. “To do that, I knew I needed to get a degree in Early Childhood Education. I love to think about how I can positively influence future generations of children to reach for their dreams and become the next generation of artists, political representatives, and even mentors and teachers like the people at Youth Opportunities Unlimited. I want children to see people who look like them and know they too can believe their dreams are possible. I want all voices to be equitably heard and that they make a difference. This opportunity with the YWCA, and the support I continue to receive along the way from mentors at YWCA and YOU, have brough my dream to life!”
The Impact Awards, hosted by Michigan Works! Association, recognizes the workforce development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers presented tributes to dozens of honorees, including employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners from across the state.
“Congratulations to Jazmine on her dedication to overcoming barriers to achieve her career goals and find her dream job,” said Sen. Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo). “Thank you to Michigan Works! Southwest and YWCA Kalamazoo for providing Jazmine with this wonderful opportunity.”
“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 M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo). “This is a win for students, employers, neighborhood organizations, and our community as a whole.”
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.
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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Southeast Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Southeast Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders,
Workforce Experts
Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Southeast Michigan
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022) — Local 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize local resident Billy Truong, Homewatch Caregivers of Washtenaw, Washtenaw Community College, as well as Michigan Works! Southeast for creating a community collaboration to find innovative ways to solve the healthcare workforce shortage.
Along with a group of healthcare employers, Michigan Works! Southeast, and Washtenaw Community College (WCC), an idea was born, discussed and a plan to train and employ healthcare providers was set and named, Foundations of Caring.
The push needed at each meeting came from Breanne Stuart from Homewatch Caregivers of Washtenaw. Her hard work and perseverance kept the collaboration of healthcare employers – Homewatch Caregivers (including Vibrant Life Senior Care, Interim of Ann Arbor, and Waltonwood Carriage Park) as well as Washtenaw Community College and Michigan Works! Southeast – on track for the new creative program.
Stuart’s leadership has taken an employer collaboration idea to successful class cohort. The first customized training course is complete and now trainees are participating in an On-the-Job Training (OJT) portion to complete the program.
"The Michigan Works! team, along with Washtenaw Community College and our local employer group, have been tireless in uncovering innovative ways to solve our workforce shortage,” said Stuart. “Over the past year and a half, the relationships we’ve solidified, the strategies we’ve built and the challenges we’ve overcome have all been monumental. While others hunkered down in the wake of the pandemic, our partners at Michigan Works! continued to push our ideas and need to the forefront of their docket! It’s partnerships like this that I envision will change and enhance the workforce of the future!”
Billy Truong went through the first cohort of customized training and is now completing the OJT portion of the program and is doing a great job!
Stuart and the employer collaboration have worked extremely hard to make this program a long-term success and they see this as a way to introduce a career path, not just a job, for individuals to consider healthcare as a pathway to the future. The best part is that trainees will know they have a job at the end of the initial two-week course because they will have already been interviewed and accepted the position before entering training. This is another one of the benefits of the Foundations of Caring Program.
The industry-led cluster strategy has been championed by four anchor employers – Homewatch Caregivers, Vibrant Life Senior Living, Interim Healthcare, and Waltonwood Carriage Park. In their tireless effort to “grow their own talent” these employers have worked with Washtenaw Community College and Michigan Works! Southeast to create an agile, fast-track classroom to career in just two weeks.
“The Foundations of Caring training initiative is a true example of the positive impact that can occur when employers connect and collaborate with each other, and to work in concert with workforce and talent development partners to produce scalable talent pipeline solutions,” said director of Workforce and Community Development for Washtenaw Community College Jose Reyes. “The shortage of long-term healthcare professionals is well documented. This new program cultivates talent to meet the need of the growing long-term care industry and to provide an expedited on-ramp to opportunity and employment among first-time job seekers, recently unemployed, or those seeking a career change to an in-demand occupation in an accelerated fashion.”
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’m proud of the way these healthcare organizations have partnered with Michigan Works! and Washtenaw Community College to further the education of local residents as well as providing good-paying career opportunities,” said Sen. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor).
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners from across the state.
“Healthcare is a field where not only Michigan, but the entire country, is in dire need of workers,” said Rep. Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield Township). “Kudos to this group of partners for creating the Foundations of Caring Program to address this need in our region.”
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.
“In a year where there were so many extra barriers to overcome, I applaud Mr. Truong for his persistence and dedication to completing the first cohort and wish him success as he completes the On-the-Job Training,” said Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor).
The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.
“I applaud Michigan Works! Southeast for continuing to help prepare our talented workers for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” said Rep. Alex Garza (D-Taylor).
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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Northeastern Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Northeastern Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Northeastern Michigan
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Northeastern Michigan 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize local resident Stacie Badley, Rise Center for Autism, and the Michigan Works! Region 7B Consortium for creating a Behavioral Technician apprenticeship program.
The RISE Center for Autism first opened its doors to autistic children in 2017. Since opening their center in Prudenville, Dr. Margaret Ficaj has had difficulty recruiting new employees and retaining them. Many conversations have occurred over the years; however, while promoting the FY21 Going PRO Talent Fund the apprenticeship program was identified as a possible solution to their staffing issues.
Michigan Works! Region 7B staff assisted Dr. Ficaj with setting up a Behavioral Health Technician Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program. In April 2021, the apprenticeship was approved by the U.S. Department of Labor. Once in place, the apprenticeship opportunity was advertised on the Pure Michigan Talent Connect website. Several candidates were identified, and funding was used to offset training costs for the On-the-Job Training component of the apprenticeship.
In April 2021, Stacie Badley contacted the Michigan Works! Office in Prudenville to complete the Career Scope assessment for the open position as a Behavioral Health Technician at the RISE Center for Autism in Prudenville. Badley had previous experience as a mental health assistant and a paraprofessional and felt she would be a great addition to their team. The employer had recently set up a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program for Behavioral Health Technicians and Badley was very interested in an apprenticeship.
In May 2021, Badley was one of the first apprentices at the RISE Center for Autism. She has officially begun her apprenticeship and is working toward receiving her certification. She enjoys working with kids and looks forward to her job every day. Badley is an exceptional employee, and it instantly shows in her smile. Michigan Works! Is delighted to have been able to assist her with her long-term career goals.
Since beginning to work with Michigan Works! Region 7B, RISE’s employee retention is up 90 percent, staffing has increased 36 percent, with 50 percent of those staff being full-time (all previous were part-time). RISE also opened a second clinic in Gladwin, expanded home-site services to add six additional counties through a recently adhered new contract, and will soon be expanding its scope through the launch of a non-profit version of RISE.
"With Michigan Works! Region 7B as a partner, RISE was able to craft better employment practices,” said Michigan Works! Region 7B Consortium executive director Mark Berdan. “RISE took what our staff suggested to heart and helped shift its technician staff hiring mindset from hiring ‘any warm body’ -- as they had been doing in staffing urgency – to scrutinizing to hire ‘quality,’ which ultimately translated into retention. With the help of Region 7B, RISE also developed an apprenticeship program that was the first of its kind in the area. RISE truly valued the professional advice given by Region 7B staff.”
Dr. Ficaj is an outstanding example of an employer and is valued in the communities she serves. She understands that as a business owner you often need to take a closer look at internal operations, challenges, wages, and policies to make your business stronger.
"With Michigan Works! Region 7B as a partner helping us craft our employment practices, RISE has not only been able to navigate the turbulent waves of the recent pandemic, but we have come out different and stronger,” said Dr. Ficaj.
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.
“It’s exciting to see how the Behavioral Health Technician apprenticeship is supporting the growth of talent in our region,” said state Sen. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington). “Kudos to RISE Center for Autism for implementing this important program.”
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners from across the state.
“Congratulations to Stacie, RISE Center for Autism, and Michigan Works! Region 7B,” said state Rep. Daire Rendon (R-Lake City). “The daily effort Michigan Works! puts into coordinating with local employers and other partners makes all the difference in talent development and retention in this area.”
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.
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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Northeast Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Northeast Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Local Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Northeast Michigan
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Northeast Michigan 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize local resident Dakota Diem, Monarch Millwork, and the Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium for investing in young talent and offering good-paying job opportunities in the community.
Monarch Millwork, located in Grayling, Michigan, operates in the hardwood veneer and plywood manufacturing industry. Their sister company, Michigan Wood Pellet, is a solid fuels specialist and one-stop-shop for all heating needs and offers everything from grills to stoves and boilers to coal pellets. Their business began in 1976 in the Grayling Industrial Park, and they moved into a newly built plant in 1992. Currently, their business is expanding into the sawmill industry, and they are planning on increasing their staff size.
Dakota Diem was working at Monarch Millwork in an entry-level position and the management knew quickly that he was a stand-out employee with great potential. The Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium Business Solutions Professional recommended the On-the-Job Training (OJT) program with the company and assisted with the contract and supporting documents to elevate his skillset and advance him in the company. The Michigan Works! Career Navigator and Career Advisor were able to assist Diem with supportive services that included a career goal to become an Industrial Production Manager. His barriers were noted as lack of appropriate work clothes as well as lack of relevant experience to achieve career goals. Michigan Works! was able to provide the required work attire to perform his job at Monarch.
Monarch Millwork managers saw great potential in Diem and they knew he was an employee that could be trained and developed for higher positions within the company. By using the wage reimbursement funds through the OJT program, Monarch and Michigan Works! developed a training plan that led to Diem through a few promotions and up to Rough Mill Production Manager, a title he holds today.
Monarch has consistently partnered with Michigan Works! to offer student talent tours and has even taken on youth work experience students. They are a supporter of the offender success program, have utilized the OJT training program, including Incumbent Workers, and are a supporting partner on the MiLEAP program.
Monarch Millwork is a company that invests in young talent by providing opportunities for students to tour the plant and learn about the manufacturing industry. Seth Reichard, Logistics, Production, Marketing, HR, QC, and Sales Manager for Monarch has led numerous tours for students in northeast Michigan. The company also works with the Shawono Center, a juvenile detention center in Grayling, and has met with students virtually to let them know the opportunities at Monarch after release. Shawono students have also participated in supervised plant tours where they learn about second chances, and a company that is willing to invest in their futures. Monarch Millwork has worked with the Offender Success Program and has taken on several new hires who came through the program.
Reichard recently joined the Crawford AuSable Schools Advisory Committee and suggested working with students to develop more skills in the area of order of operations. Meaning, how do we figure out what cuts need to be made, and when during a project, to ensure that there is a sufficient volume of material to complete the job.
“The pandemic has been especially difficult for the manufacturing industry,” said Sen. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington). “Kudos to Monarch Millwork for investing in young talent to develop the talent pipeline.”
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 Rep. Daire Rendon (R-Lake City). “Monarch Millwork 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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Southwest Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Southwest Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders,
Workforce Experts
Local Lawmakers in Celebrating Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Southwest Michigan
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Southwest Michigan 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize Spectrum Health Lakeland, Dr. Lowell Hamel, Dr. Lynn Todman, Lake Michigan College, and Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren, for establishing three Registered Apprenticeships in clinical healthcare roles focused on recruitment from underrepresented populations.
Spectrum Health Lakeland is a nonprofit community-owned health system in Southwest Michigan, serving roughly 237,000 in their service area. Lakeland is a division of Spectrum Health comprising over 31,000 team members, 14 hospitals (including Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital), a robust network of care facilities, teams of nationally recognized doctors and providers, and the nation’s third-largest provider-sponsored health plan, Priority Health, currently serving over one million members across the state of Michigan.
The hospitals of Lakeland have always offered essential health care services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Lakeland continually works to create an integrated system of care that is accessible, affordable, compassionate, and responsible.
Spectrum Health Lakeland has demonstrated an outstanding example of demand-driven, community-based initiatives. Throughout 2021, they have established three Registered Apprenticeships in clinical healthcare roles focusing on recruitment from underrepresented populations in the surrounding areas. The three programs are for Medical Assistants, Pharmacy Technicians, and Phlebotomists. Their vision is to create career pathways for residents, along with having excellent patient care with staff that represent the community they are serving.
"We have appreciated the knowledge, support, and expertise that Michigan Works! Has provided in launching three apprenticeship programs,” said Dr. Lowell Hamel, COO, Spectrum Health Lakeland. “They have been a true partner in this new adventure as we grow these opportunities for our organization and community.”
Their need for these programs stems from an ongoing talent shortage, along with the desire to narrow the health inequities experienced in employee demographics and access to healthcare.
Spectrum Health Lakeland identified more than 850 team members operating in less skilled labor roles. Through this data analysis of the employee base and assistance from Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren, there is certainty in ensuring career pathways for incumbent workers and new recruitment incentives for the talent pool. The quality programming and small pilot cohorts have created significant opportunities for lessons learned and best practices. Additionally, Spectrum Health Lakeland increased their base pay for all employees to $15 per hour, following suit with all occupations receiving applicable increases. This extensive analysis, and actions taken, are sure to highlight Spectrum Health Lakeland for innovation and creativity in accomplishing their goals.
"The Health Sciences team members at Lake Michigan College were super excited to partner with Michigan Works! for an apprenticeship offering with Spectrum Health Lakeland,” said Marla Clark, Dean, Health Sciences, Lake Michigan College. “Rick, Erin, and the rest of the team at Michigan Works! jumped right in and shared their knowledge of an apprenticeship and all the particulars to getting one started. They continue to provide great support and are a strong partner to work with, which is certainly a benefit for us and this community.”
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.
“These thriving apprenticeship program illustrate that investing in talent development is essential to recruit and attract the best talent in the region,” said Sen. Kim LaSata (R-Coloma). “Congratulations to Spectrum Health Lakeland, Lake Michigan College and Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren on the success of these great apprenticeship programs!”
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.
“The success of these programs is a testament to how community partners can work together to offer great career opportunities in our region,” said Rep. Pauline Wendzel (R-Watervliet). “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 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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Macomb/St. Clair Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Macomb/St. Clair Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Local Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Macomb and St. Clair Counties
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize Macomb County resident Melissa Etu and Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!.
Melissa Etue had been working in the makeup industry for 20 years when she decided to pursue opportunities in a different industry. Due to the pandemic, the beauty industry, and retail in which Etue worked, was heavily impacted. In the fall of 2020, Etue officially parted ways with her employer when she was laid off. Etue wanted to find a career that reignited her passion for service, building a brilliant team, and a strong foundational base for a business to thrive.
Etue strived to work for a company that aligned with her values and desired a mission statement she could support. One day, she saw a posting for a District Manager at Achatz Handmade Pie Company. She fit many of the skills at this position but did not have experience in the food industry. Although Etue did not have experience in the industry, skills could be taught, and she knew she had the passion to bring to Achatz Pies.
“I am grateful that Achatz Pies took a chance on me because together we are innovating and building a stronger business, and I am becoming a great baker in the process,” said Etue. “I am not developing a new training program for the next group hiring into the company. I am taking my experience, and making it teachable for an overall stronger, and an even more passionate team driven by skills and knowledge.”
She interviewed for the District Manager position and clicked with leadership and the founder of the company. She felt like she had found her place until they asked about her knowledge of the food industry. Etue admitted she did not know food safety, quality assessment, and how to bake.
In partnership with Michigan Works!, Achatz Pies decided to hire Etue into the leadership role for their retail operations. They saw her passion for service and willingness to learn something new. She received 480 hours of on-the-job training as a District Manager for Achatz Pies with training funds provided by COVID-19 Recovery Project Funds.
“The USDOL awarded funds to the State of Michigan in May 2020 to provide disaster relief employment and included additional dislocated worker funding to accommodate the expected rise in unemployment during the pandemic,” said executive director of Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! Justin Al-Igoe. “Our nominee is an example of the thousands of local workers who lost their job due to the impact of the pandemic. With the support of this employment and training assistance, our nominee became reemployed in a new industry in a high-demand occupation.”
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.
“Congratulations to Melissa and Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! on winning this prestigious award,” said Sen. Paul Wojno (D-Warren). “I am grateful for the services Michigan Works! provides job seekers and employers all over the state. The work you do changes people’s lives for the better every single day!”
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.
“Success stories like this one provide hope for other people who may be facing similar barriers in their own job search,” said Rep. Richard Steenland (D-Roseville). “I commend Melissa for her perseverance and willingness to learn a new skill in order to find her dream job!”
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.
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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Local Flint Area Workforce Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Local Workforce Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Local Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts
in Greater Flint Area
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Local 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize local resident Carmen Rivera, Port Austin Level and Tool, Tuscola County MDHHS, and GST Michigan Works! for their dedication to providing good-paying job opportunities in the community and to helping workers succeed in their career endeavors.
Carmen Rivera and her family arrived in Michigan in spring of 2019 from Puerto Rico, on an employment opportunity, after Puerto Rico was heavily hit by Hurricane Maria. GST Michigan Works! was able to partner with a local employer and partners to provide transportation, employment, and housing to the Rivera’s.
Rivera participated in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and embraced her new community. Sadly, the following year, Rivera and her husband lost their jobs. She continued to look for employment and housing but with no steady income, they wondered how they would make it. Going back to Puerto Rico was not an option as there were fewer jobs than ever.
Ronaldo Gomez, from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), connected the family to much needed benefits and resources. Once again, they had healthcare coverage, assistance to pay for their basic needs, and support while they found new employment. It was the light at the end of the tunnel that gave them the strength and encouragement to not give up.
Rivera connected with the PATH program and GST Michigan Works! in December of 2020. Public transportation was limited, and Rivera would start walking early in the cold winter days in search of work. It wasn’t long before her dedication paid off.
Jennifer Upthegrove, from Port Austin Level and Tool, saw in Rivera the dedication she wanted in a worker and offered her a job where she started immediately. Knowing it was winter and that Rivera was walking to work, Upthegrove offered to pick her up and drive her home. Things started to really turn around for this family and their success became contagious as opportunities started pouring in. GST Michigan Works! was able to help with a car, registration, and the first few months of insurance coverage. An opening at Port Austin Level and Tool allowed Rivera’s husband to join the team and finally, there were two incomes to stabilize the family.
“I am very grateful to GST Michigan Works! And the services they provide for workers,” said Upthegrove. “Without the help Carmen received, she would have gone back to Puerto Rico and we may have had to close our doors. Carmen learned her job quickly and does excellent work. Having good workers on your team makes all the difference.”
With the help of the community, she was able to rent a house near her place of employment where she continues to live. Rivera considers Michigan her new home and will never forget how the community came together to help her family when they needed it most.
“I am very thankful, and emotional, for the support I received through GST Michigan Works! and their assistance in helping me purchase a vehicle to get to and from work,” said Rivera.
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.
“The past two years has brought to light new challenges and barriers for employers across the state,” said state Sen. Dan Lauwers (R-Brockway Township). “Kudos to Port Austin Level and Tool, MDHHS, and GST Michigan Works! for assisting Carmen with the variety of barriers she has faced.”
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.
“Congratulations to Carmen, Port Austin Level and Tool, MDHHS, and GST Michigan Works! on winning this prestigious award,” said Rep. Phil Green (R-Millington). “Success stories like this provide hope for others who may be experiencing similar circumstances.”
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.
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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Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! and Regional Employers Recognized with 2022 Impact Awards
Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! and Regional Employers Recognized with 2022 Impact Awards
LANSING, MI – Local lawmaker and statewide talent development officials gathered in-person and virtually on Thursday, March 24 to recognize Isabella Bank and Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! for their dedication to the community.
Isabella Bank’s over 118 years of service to the community began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. The bank has expanded its operations to seven counties, which include Clare, Gratiot, Isabella, Mecosta, Midland, Montcalm and Saginaw. With a demand-driven philosophy, Isabella Bank has been able to diagnose and deliver financial products and services to meet the needs in the communities they serve.
Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! worked with Isabella Bank with their Going PRO Talent Fund grant application process and submitted their application on their behalf. The banking and financial industry is extremely competitive and requires continuous attention to stay relevant. The Going PRO Talent Fund has helped support Isabella Bank’s mission of maintaining high quality, personalized service to their customers, enhancing shareholder value through strategic growth and being an employer of choice.
“Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! Business Services Team members know Isabella Bank and its recruitment and training needs” said Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! CEO, Chris Rishko.
“The Business Services Team does a great job of helping us with valuable resources,” said Patrick Mease, Sr. Vice President with Isabella Bank. “Their assistance with the Going PRO Talent Fund grant award has helped us strengthen relationships with our customers. The Going Pro Talent Fund has been vital for our bank to continue our growth through employee development. We look forward to continuing this relations with Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works.”
The Impact Awards, Hosted by the Michigan Works! Association, recognize the economic success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.
“Congratulations to the team at Isabella Bank!” said Rick Outman (R. Six Lakes). “I am happy to see them working closely with Michigan Works! to continue growing Michigan’s talent pipeline. Michigan Works! is dedicated to educating Michiganders and providing opportunities for personal growth and advancement. These initiatives are key to supporting Michigan businesses, strengthening our workforce, and ensuring the success of Michigan residents.”
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations and partners.
“Congratulations to Isabella Bank and Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! on winning this prestigious award,” said Rep. Roger Hauck (R. Union Township). “The wide variety of services Michigan Works! provides to businesses throughout the state makes them one of the state’s most valuable assets in ensuring the state’s economic prosperity.”
Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! is a consortium of Saginaw, Midland, Bay, Gratiot, and Isabella counties, established to operate workforce development programs for this region. It is one of 16 separate and independent Michigan Works! agencies and one of about 550 similar agencies nationwide.
Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! operates a total of five sites throughout the region. Michigan Works! strengthens the local economy 1) by assisting regional employers in finding and retaining qualified employees; and; 2) by assuring that the labor force meets the needs of regional employers.
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Detroit Area Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Detroit Area Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Local Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Talent Pipeline Efforts in Detroit
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Detroit area 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, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize Kappen Tree Service, Detroit resident DeMarcus Cleveland, DTE Energy, IBEW Local 17, Focus: HOPE, U.S. Truck Driver Training School, Detroit at Work, and Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) for their commitment to recruit Detroit residents to a new apprenticeship program that creates robust, skilled trades career opportunities.
Cleveland is a lifelong Detroiter, husband of five years and a father of two kids, with another on the way. He left his career of six years as a United States Postal Service (USPS) letter carrier to pursue a stable, skilled-trades career to provide for his family. Cleveland came to DESC for assistance in finding a job in the skilled trades.
Through Detroit at Work, DESC assisted Cleveland with the sign-up process and provided funding for him to take part in the DTE/IBEW Tree Trim Academy, of which Cleveland is now a graduate who is working in a full-time position with Kappen Tree Service and has started his union apprenticeship.
“The Tree Trim Academy equips Detroiters with the skills they will need for high-paying and in-demand skilled trades careers,” said President of DESC Terri Weems. “It also provides them a direct pathway to financial and socio-economic growth and stability. For many participants these have been life-changing opportunities and, with more cohorts planned, there will be further opportunities for Detroiters to take part.”
Detroit at Work partnered with DTE Energy, IBEW Local 17, Focus: HOPE and U.S. Truck Driver Training School (USDTS) to engage and recruit City of Detroit residents, including Cleveland, to join DTE’s newly opened Tree Trim Academy that upskills and trains those seeking a union, skilled trades career in Line Clearance Tree Trimming.
"Tree Trim jobs bring prosperity to people who pursue them and also offer a strong pipeline to opportunities such as overhead line work,” said CEO of DTE Energy Jerry Norcia. “And I can tell you, these are really high-paying jobs that allow people to provide nicely for their families.”
Upon completion of the DTE/IBEW Tree Trim Academy, graduates begin their IBEW apprenticeship with a starting wage of $15.92 per hour, which quickly jumps to almost $18 per hour within their first 500 hours on the job. A tree trim apprenticeship takes between two and two-and-a-half years to complete, at which time, journeyman tree trimmers make $29 per hour with full union benefits for themselves and their families.
“Congratulations to Kappen Tree Service, DeMarcus Cleveland, DTE Energy, IBEW Local 17, Focus: HOPE, U.S. Truck Driver Training School, Detroit at Work, and DESC on winning the Impact Award,” said 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 hire more Detroiters. Tree-trimming is a critical job right now for our communities as we continue to face extreme weather events, caused by climate change, that lead to massive power outages. These training programs are so important in making sure we have the workforce to handle this growing concern to help our neighborhoods and, at the same time, put people to work in good-paying jobs.”
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.
Award winners included employers, workers, Michigan Works! organizations, and partners.
“Congratulations to DeMarcus and this group of partners on winning this prestigious award,” said Sen. Kevin Daley (R-Lapeer County). “Kappen Tree Service started in 1990 as a family business out of the back of a pickup truck and has evolved in present day to a multiple fleet business. It’s partnerships like these that help great family-owned businesses in our state grow and continue to succeed.”
Rep. Phil Green (R-Millington) echoed Sen. Daley’s sentiments.
“DeMarcus is an example of what collaboration looks like,” said Rep. Green. “Kappen Tree Service, specifically Warren Kappen, represents all of the qualities that make the Thumb a great place to work, live and recreate.”
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.
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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Capital Area Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Capital Area Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts
Local Lawmakers Celebrate Leadership in Talent Development
Through Community Partnerships
LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Capital Area leadership in talent development through community partnerships were among the successes celebrated by state leaders at the annual Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards this week.
Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually, and in-person, on Thursday, March 24 to recognize KTM Industries and Capital Area Michigan Works! for customizing recruiting strategies and expanding their reach into the job seeker market.
Established in 2002, KTM Industries is a producer of Green Cell Foam, a unique, natural, environmentally friendly packaging. Thermal insulating and shock absorbing, Green Cell Foam has replaced polystyrene packaging in industries ranging from pharmaceutical to automotive. It is compostable, water soluble and made of annually renewable, non-GMO, U.S.-grown cornstarch, proving it is possible to be “green” and make money. In addition to being an environmental steward and an industry leader, KTM Industries is an Employer of Excellence in greater Lansing.
KTM Industries has worked with the Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) Business Services Team for many years to customize recruiting strategies and expand their reach into the job seeker market. Through postings on Pure Michigan Talent Connect, social media, and job fairs held onsite virtually, KTM Industries grew from 20 employees to 75 between 2017 and 2018. KTM then more than doubled the size of their Lansing-based workforce to 160 in 2019-20.
Many of these new employees have been New Americans and young workers. The increasingly diverse and growing workforce brought with it a change in the mechanics of training, supporting their growing workforce and business.
In 2019, KTM Industries became one of the founding members of the CAMW! Business Resource Network. Through this partnership, KTM provides concrete support to assist with barriers such as reliable transportation, locating affordable housing, strategies to get caught up on bill payment, teaching debt management, and even offering help navigating health and retirement benefits. This has led to increased retention for KTM and job stability for the employees.
"KTM has been working with CAMW! for over 20 years, from when we only had a dozen employees,” said president and CEO of KTM Industries Tim Colonnese. “Originally, we looked to CAMW! to help us fill open positions and for information on the local employment market. Since then, we have expanded our reliance on CAMW! for advice on best employment practices, assistance with training grants, and, most recently, entering into their Business Resource Network (BRN) program as a valuable additional tool in helping and retaining employees. Throughout the years, our interactions with CAMW! -- from the account manager to the CEO – have been consistently professional, cordial, and facilitative. Now, with over 200 local employees, we consider CAMW! an important, strategic partner to KTM’s current and future success.”
Through three Going PRO Talent Fund independent applications, 47 KTM employees are now better prepared to assist with both solving the problems of an exponentially growing business and providing the effective leadership required to support a growing workforce. As KTM Industries has expanded and grown in market share, they have shared that success with employees, reinvesting in the workforce by raising wages twice in the past year.
“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. Curtis Hertel, Jr. (D-East Lansing). “The work they have done, and continue to do, with KTM 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.
“Congratulations to KTM Industries on winning this prestigious award,” said state Rep. Kara Hope (D-Lansing). “Your work has made you a valuable partner in Michigan’s continued economic success.”
Award winners included Michigan businesses, partners, employees, and Michigan Works! organizations.
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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