Local Talent Development Leader Iman Shami Honored by Michigan Works! Association

LANSING, Mich. (Sep 16, 2020) – Iman Shami of SEMCA Michigan Works! was awarded a “Shining Star” Award by the Michigan Works! Association for her efforts to meet employment needs in Monroe and Wayne counties.  Shami recently received the award during the Association’s annual conference.  

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

“Iman has a true passion for helping others,” said Luann Dunsford, chief executive officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “She demonstrates a notable passion and dedication for serving jobseekers in her community and her coworkers recognize her as a team player who is committed to success and is always willing to step in and help.” 

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

“Iman began her career in workforce development in 2009 when she joined the Downriver Community Conference as a career specialist in the Employment Service (ES) Program at SEMCA’s Dearborn American Job Center,” said Greg Pitoniak, CEO of SEMCA Michigan Works!.  “Her language skills, coupled with her ability to quickly gain proficiency in the use of the electronic labor exchange system, allowed her to assist the large limited English-speaking customer base.  In 2013, Iman’s exceptional track record resulted in a promotion to lead the ES team as a coordinator at the Dearborn Job Center.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, staff of the SEMCA Michigan Works! system stepped up to assist the State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency by assisting members of our community access their benefits.  Motivated by a passion to serve those in need, she assisted over 2,100 callers locally and hundreds more via the statewide issue database.  She quickly rose as a shining star by going above and beyond to ensure the success of the program at a critical time for our state and its residents.” 

Shami said she is honored to receive this award. 

“I am very pleased to be awarded this honorable award,” said Shami.  “I’m blessed to be part of SEMCA, DCC and the workforce development personifying Michigan Works!, making a change in each person’s life for the better.” 

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