NEWS
March Marks Mentoring Month in Michigan
As Michigan celebrates Mentoring Month this March, the Michigan Works! Association is highlighting the critical role mentorship plays in preparing the state’s workforce for future success. This year, Mentoring Month aligns with the Governor’s Executive Budget Recommendations, which propose increased investments in programs such as Going PRO Talent Fund, Michigan Skills Fund, Michigan Reconnect, and other apprenticeship initiatives—programs that directly support workforce development and mentorship opportunities.
LANSING (Mar 4, 2025) - As Michigan celebrates Mentoring Month this March, the Michigan Works! Association is highlighting the critical role mentorship plays in preparing the state’s workforce for future success. This year, Mentoring Month aligns with the Governor’s Executive Budget Recommendations, which propose increased investments in programs such as Going PRO Talent Fund, Michigan Skills Fund, Michigan Reconnect, and other apprenticeship initiatives—programs that directly support workforce development and mentorship opportunities.
"Mentorship is the foundation of a resilient, adaptable workforce," said Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works! Association. "By aligning mentorship efforts with state-supported programs, we can provide individuals with the skills, guidance, and opportunities needed to succeed in Michigan's evolving job market."
Mentorship and State Budget Priorities: A Powerful Partnership
The Governor’s 2025 Executive Budget Recommendations include significant investments designed to enhance workforce development across Michigan:
$75 million for the Going PRO Talent Fund: This funding supports employer-driven training programs that often include mentorship components, helping workers gain industry-recognized credentials and skills.
$50 million for the MI Skills Fund: This fund provides resources for skills training initiatives, encouraging partnerships between businesses and educational institutions that often involve mentoring relationships.
Expanded Michigan Reconnect Program: By investing in this program, Michigan will provide more adults with tuition-free opportunities to earn in-demand skills, with mentors guiding participants through educational and career decisions.
Strengthening Apprenticeship Opportunities: The budget prioritizes growing registered apprenticeship programs, where mentorship is a core component as seasoned professionals train and support apprentices on the job.
The Impact of Mentorship on Michigan’s Workforce
Mentoring provides individuals with more than just skills; it fosters confidence, career clarity, and resilience. Programs supported by Michigan Works! agencies statewide offer mentorship opportunities to diverse populations, including youth exploring career options, veterans transitioning to civilian life, and adults reentering the workforce.
"When we invest in mentorship, we’re investing in Michigan’s economic future," Hundt said. "These budget recommendations reflect our commitment to workforce development that prepares Michigan residents for success in high-demand industries."
Get Involved in Mentoring Month
Michigan Works! encourages businesses, educational institutions, and community members to participate in Mentoring Month activities by:
Volunteering as mentors for students and job seekers.
Partnering with Michigan Works! agencies to offer internships, apprenticeships, and training programs.
Supporting advocacy efforts for the workforce development initiatives outlined in the state budget.
To learn more about mentoring opportunities or to find a Michigan Works! office near you, visit michiganworks.org.
About Michigan Works! Association The Michigan Works! Association is committed to supporting the state’s workforce through innovative programs, partnerships, and initiatives. By connecting job seekers with employment and training opportunities, Michigan Works! helps build a stronger, more prosperous Michigan.
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Michigan Works! Association applauds Governor Whitmer’s budget proposal for lowering costs, job creation, and workforce development
LANSING (Feb. 5, 2025) - The Michigan Works! Association today expressed support for Governor Whitmer’s budget proposal, which prioritizes investments that directly benefit Michigan’s workforce, families, and businesses.
“The proposed budget reflects a commitment to strengthening workforce pipelines and fostering economic opportunities for all Michiganders,” said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. “With this executive plan, we can see opportunities for bringing more people into our state’s talent pipeline. Governor Whitmer’s budget underscores the need for strategic workforce investments, including continued support for the Going PRO Talent Fund, strategies for eliminating key workforce barriers, and the expansion of our state’s registered apprenticeship program.
“What’s more, the proposal allocates funding to support Small Business Entrepreneurial Support Hubs and significant resources to help employers attract and retain workers in key industries.
“The Michigan Works! Association remains committed to working alongside state leaders, employers, and job seekers to implement these transformative initiatives between now and June. These investments will drive economic mobility, create new job opportunities, and ensure that every Michigander has access to the tools they need to succeed in today’s economy.”
Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's talent development system. For more information, visit www.michiganworks.org, or call (517) 371-1100.
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Michigan Works! Association Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week
LANSING (Nov. 18, 2024) - In recognition of the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week, which takes place from Nov. 17–23, the Michigan Works! Association is proud to highlight the critical role that apprenticeships play in building Michigan’s workforce of tomorrow.
As a champion of workforce development, the Michigan Works! network continues to lead the charge in promoting apprenticeships as a proven pathway to career success, equipping job seekers with valuable skills and hands-on experience.
This year, the Association is proud to unveil a new Apprenticeship section of its website, available at: www.michiganworks.org/apprenticeships
Moving forward, the group will continue populating the page with Race to Talent event information, linking to all of the Race to Talent events taking place across the MW! system. Additionally, there are other resources on the page, such as the apprenticeship dashboard, info on National Apprenticeship Week, and much more.
National Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide celebration that showcases the positive impact of apprenticeship programs on job seekers, employers, and the economy. Michigan Works! plays an integral role in expanding these opportunities, helping job seekers of all ages connect with apprenticeship programs in a range of high-demand industries, from advanced manufacturing and healthcare to construction and information technology.
“Apprenticeships offer a powerful way to learn while earning, giving participants both the skills and the income they need to succeed in today’s job market,” said Ryan Hundt, Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “We’re committed to working with local employers, educational institutions, and community partners to expand access to apprenticeships and ensure that Michigan remains competitive in a global economy.”
In 2023, Michigan Works! helped more than 6,800 individuals enroll in registered apprenticeship programs, providing them with valuable, on-the-job training that leads to high-quality careers. During that same time period, around 2,500 apprenticeships were completed. By partnering with hundreds of employers statewide, Michigan Works! ensures that apprenticeship opportunities are available across a variety of industries.
Apprenticeship Programs: A Win-Win for Job Seekers and Employers
For job seekers, apprenticeships provide a direct path to a stable career without the financial burden of traditional education routes. For employers, apprenticeships are an opportunity to cultivate skilled workers from within, helping to address workforce shortages and build a talent pipeline that can adapt to industry changes.
“As industries continue to evolve, apprenticeship programs are more important than ever in closing the skills gap,” said Hundt. “The hands-on training and mentorship offered through these programs create a well-rounded workforce, ready to meet the challenges of the future.”
Get Involved
Michigan Works! invites employers, job seekers, and community members to participate in National Apprenticeship Week by attending local events, workshops, and apprenticeship showcases hosted across the state. These events will provide opportunities to learn more about the benefits of apprenticeships, connect with program sponsors, and explore career pathways in various sectors.
For more information on apprenticeship opportunities and how to get involved in National Apprenticeship Week events, visit www.michiganworks.org or contact your nearest Michigan Works! Agency.
Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's talent development system. For more information, visit www.michiganworks.org, or call (517) 371-1100.
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Michigan Works! Association Highlights the Importance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
LANSING, MI — Michigan Works! Association is proud to join organizations across the country in recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) throughout October. This annual observance celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities and highlights the importance of inclusive hiring practices.
As part of its ongoing efforts to create an inclusive workforce, Michigan Works! is committed to raising awareness about the value of hiring individuals with disabilities and the positive impact they bring to Michigan’s economy. In alignment with this year’s NDEAM theme, “Advancing Access and Equity in the Workplace,” the association seeks to emphasize how businesses can benefit from leveraging the diverse talents of employees with disabilities.
“Our workforce is stronger when it reflects the full diversity of our community, and that includes ensuring opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works! Association. “Through inclusive hiring, businesses not only benefit from diverse talent and unique perspectives, but they also create environments where innovation and creativity thrive.”
Despite the progress made over the years, individuals with disabilities continue to face higher unemployment rates compared to the general population. A report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that in 2023, only 21.3% of individuals with disabilities were employed, compared to 65.4% of individuals without disabilities.
“This gap highlights the need for a stronger focus on access, training, and equitable hiring practices across industries,” Hundt said.
The Michigan Works! Association and its statewide network of agencies are dedicated to helping employers overcome these barriers by offering tools, resources, and customized strategies for hiring and retaining workers with disabilities.
Michigan Works! Association invites local businesses, community leaders, and advocates to participate in NDEAM activities and to help build a more equitable workforce in Michigan.
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Reform. Resolve. Restart.
New study clarifies opportunities, barriers experienced by formerly incarcerated people in Michigan
Fresh insights into the experiences of formerly incarcerated people demonstrate the need for state-level policy changes and more robust community supports, according to a study released today by the Michigan Works! Association.
During a statewide survey and related focus groups, former prisoners re-entering society in Michigan told researchers about the most significant challenges they faced when using re-entry employment services.
“Time and again, we heard that livable wages, housing, childcare and transportation topped the list of obstacles,” said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. “At the same time, there are gaps in the programs aimed at helping former prisoners manage their employment challenges. Through this research, we have developed a clear roadmap for change, so all Michigan residents can have opportunities to transform their lives for the better.”
With the support of this new research, the association is preparing a powerful “Reform, Resolve, Restart” agenda to help better support returning citizens in Michigan:
Improve housing access for individuals with criminal histories. The association supports the Fair Chance Access to Housing Act, HB 4878, which can open much-needed housing options.
Boost funding for the Automatic Expungement Portal. These dollars will help people with felony convictions track and verify the expungement of their records.
Transition Offender Success and other programs from the Michigan Department of Corrections to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. This change will help ensure workforce development is prioritized as part of the prisoner re-entry process.
Enhance funding for trauma-informed peer-to-peer re-entry programs. These programs are known to reduce recidivism and ensure overall success
“These four items form our central pillars for change,” Hundt said. “Of course, there is much more to be done within the Michigan Works! network and in communities statewide. We will continue to advance this dialogue and ensure all formerly incarcerated people can turn over fresh pages and begin their lives anew. Our goal is to answer their basic needs so they can turn away from their past crimes and begin to contribute to the communities we share.”
The Michigan Works! Association commissioned the report with the support of a $100k planning grant received from the Michigan Justice Fund in early 2023. Nation Outside, a major effort to organize justice-impacted voices with its origins in Michigan, was an early partner in the research.
"At Nation Outside, we firmly believe in the power of second chances. This research highlights the urgent need for enhanced support and systemic changes to ensure that formerly incarcerated individuals have access to meaningful employment opportunities,” said Ceilia Zavala, Nation Outside’s co-executive director. “By prioritizing workforce development and ensuring everyone has a fair shot at rebuilding their lives, we can help people not just survive but thrive in their communities. Together, we can create a more just and inclusive Michigan where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed."
Feedback from the research, which was supported by Lansing-based Public Policy Associates, will be used to engender purposeful improvements across the Michigan Works! network of agencies.
“We gained valuable recommendations that will help respond more effectively to this valuable population of workers,” Hundt said. “In fact, support for these changes must come from a variety of sectors. Public, private, non-profit, and faith-based communities in Michigan all have a role to play. It’s time for us to push up our sleeves and get started.”
Michigan Works! Association applauds Gov. Whitmer’s executive directive bolstering training resources for critical jobs
After Governor Whitmer issued an Executive Directive Monday to harness federal resources to help train Michigan workers for critical jobs, Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt issued the following statement:
“We appreciate the Governor’s commitment to workforce development and investing in the careers our state needs now and in the future. The Michigan Works! network is proud to help workers succeed by providing on-the-job training resources that lead to industry credentials or certificates. The Governor’s Executive Directive will help us train residents for critical infrastructure jobs. Michigan Works! is ready to work with the Governor and the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity to ensure Michiganders receive the training resources to prepare them for infrastructure careers.”
Upper Peninsula business celebrated at Michigan Capitol for the 2024 Michigan Works! Impact Awards
LANSING- State leaders this week recognized the economic achievements of the Mackinac Straits Health System at the 2024 Michigan Works! Impact Awards at the Michigan Capitol.
“The Impact Awards showcase the impressive workforce development achievements that take place in partnership with the Michigan Works!’ network each year,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works! Association. “These successes reinforce the role our network plays in transforming our workforce and the lives of Michiganders. Congratulations to all the honorees!”
Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! nominated The Mackinac Straits Health System (MSHS) for creating a Certified Medical Assistant apprenticeship program. The apprenticeship is a two-year, competency-based program. Each apprentice is required to display proficiency in varying skills and attend 482 hours of Related Technical Instruction (RTI). Upon completion of the RTI, apprentices are eligible to sit for different certifications. To date, MSHS has enrolled six apprentices, is working with their second cohort, and has a waiting list for future cohorts.
The Impact Awards, held April 17th, celebrated the economic impact of newly created jobs, transformational training, and effective talent pipeline development within our communities. Honorees from across the state received awards highlighted by their local lawmakers and state workforce development officials.
Employers and job seekers can find the nearest Michigan Works! Service Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1 800) 285-WORKS (9675).
About Michigan Works!: Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's workforce development system. For more information, please visit www.michiganworks.org.
Flint/Saginaw organizations and employees celebrated at Michigan Capitol for the 2024 Michigan Works! Impact Awards
LANSING- State leaders this week recognized the economic achievements of local businesses and their employees 2024 Michigan Works! Impact Awards at the Michigan Capitol. Mid-Michigan honorees included Kapex Manufacturing LLC headquartered in Saginaw, and the City of Flint Police Department in Flint.
“The Impact Awards showcase the impressive workforce development achievements that take place in partnership with the Michigan Works!’ network each year,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works! Association. “These successes reinforce the role our network plays in transforming our workforce and the lives of Michiganders. Congratulations to all the honorees!”
Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works! nominated Kapex Manufacturing LLC for their assistance for over 10 years in providing support to their talent recruitment and retention needs, including being a work site for GLBMW’s Youth Program.
Kapex employee Jeremy Lutze was honored for continuously showing initiative and having a positive impact on those around him as he worked with the Young Professionals Program.
GST Michigan Works! (GSTMW) nominated The City of Flint Police for their partnership which continuously boosts recruitment of new officers. Through this partnership, they were able to create a unique hiring event organized to take place at GSTMW Fenton Service Center.
Now homicide detective, LaShabriane Kelly is an example of a success story through collaboration. She was nominated for her hard work, and highlighted the transformative journey from fear to resilience, ultimately achieving her goal of becoming a detective.
The Impact Awards, held April 17th, celebrated the economic impact of newly created jobs, transformational training, and effective talent pipeline development within our communities. Honorees from across the state received awards highlighted by their local lawmakers and state workforce development officials.
Employers and job seekers can find the nearest Michigan Works! Service Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1 800) 285-WORKS (9675).
About Michigan Works!: Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's workforce development system. For more information, please visit www.michiganworks.org.
West Michigan businesses, employees celebrated at Michigan Capitol for the Michigan Works! Impact Awards
LANSING- State leaders this week recognized the economic achievements of West and Southwest Michigan businesses and their employees 2024 Michigan Works! Impact Awards at the Michigan Capitol. The honorees included Hi-Tech Electric Company, headquartered in Portage, C5 Electric LLC in Paw Paw, and Walters Gardens in Zeeland.
“The Impact Awards showcase the impressive workforce development achievements that take place in partnership with the Michigan Works!’ network each year,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works! Association. “These successes reinforce the role our network plays in transforming our workforce and the lives of Michiganders. Congratulations to all the honorees!”
Michigan Works! Southwest nominated Hi-Tech Electric Company for implementing apprenticeship training programs that foster continuous learning, promoting innovation and knowledge within the organization. Hi-Tech employee Austin Edwards joined Hi-Tech Electric through an apprenticeship training program to further advance his career. He was honored for the tremendous strides made in all aspects of his development since starting at the company.
Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren nominated C5 Electric LLC for their profound influence in shaping the landscape of electrical services, setting a benchmark for excellence, and inspiring others to aspire for greatness. Their proactive initiation of apprenticeships demonstrates their commitment to nurturing talent and meeting market needs. Brian Dudasko became an apprentice at C5 Electric in looking for a more fulfilling and successful future for his family. He was nominated for hard work, dedication, and success.
West Michigan Works! nominated Walters Gardens in Zeeland for being a leader in employing refugees through the agency’s Work Experience Program. The company has been instrumental in developing a sustainable agribusiness talent pipeline in West Michigan. Walters Gardens employee Kira Malinina came to Michigan after fleeing the war in Ukraine and West Michigan Works! helped her integrate and begin a new life in Michigan. The agency connected her with Walters Gardens and she quickly earned a permanent position due to her strong work ethic.
The Impact Awards, held April 17th, celebrated the economic impact of newly created jobs, transformational training, and effective talent pipeline development within our communities. Honorees from across the state received awards highlighted by their local lawmakers and state workforce development officials.
Employers and job seekers can find the nearest Michigan Works! Service Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1 800) 285-WORKS (9675).
About Michigan Works!: Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's workforce development system. For more information, please visit www.michiganworks.org.
Lansing/Cement City businesses, employees celebrated at Michigan Capitol for Michigan Works! Impact Awards
LANSING- State leaders this week recognized the economic achievements of Michigan businesses and their employees 2024 Michigan Works! Impact Awards at the Michigan Capitol. Honorees from Mid-Michigan and South Central Michigan included The Woodbridge Group, headquartered in Lansing, and Ross Design in Cement City.
“The Impact Awards showcase the impressive workforce development achievements that take place in partnership with the Michigan Works!’ network each year,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO of Michigan Works! Association. “These successes reinforce the role our network plays in transforming our workforce and the lives of Michiganders. Congratulations to all the honorees!”
Capital Area Michigan Works! nominated The Woodbridge Group for their work to enhance talent attraction, retention, and development, by engaging with the Business Services Team for recruitment services and the Business Resource Network (BRN) to implement strategies for increasing employee retention.
Woodbridge Group employee Jessica Graff, who hired into the company as a laborer and is now a Team Lead, was honored for working with her Business Resource Coach to find mental health support, improving her budgeting and financial literacy skills.
Michigan Works! Southeast nominated Ross Design™ for working to leverage grant dollars and utilize Michigan Works! services to strengthen the company.
Ross Design employee Oleksii (Alex) Schendryhin, refugee from Ukraine, was hired after receiving high scores on his evaluation after completion of a Work Experience Placement (WEP). He was honored for his success, as well as the company’s, as a Business Services Coordinator and MWSE helped him get a chance at his first job in America.
The Impact Awards, held April 17th, celebrated the economic impact of newly created jobs, transformational training, and effective talent pipeline development within our communities. Honorees from across the state received awards highlighted by their local lawmakers and state workforce development officials.
Employers and job seekers can find the nearest Michigan Works! Service Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1 800) 285-WORKS (9675).
About Michigan Works! Association: Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's workforce development system. For more information, please visit www.michiganworks.org.