NEWS

Guest User 9/15/21 Guest User 9/15/21

Bronson Healthcare Recognized as Employer of the Year by Michigan Works! Association

LANSING, MI (Sep 15, 2021) – The Michigan Works! Association recently honored Bronson Healthcare for their commitment to training and developing a pipeline of skilled and competent talent in Michigan. Named Michigan Works! Association Employer of the Year, Bronson Healthcare received an award during the Association’s annual conference.

“The Michigan Works! Association is proud to honor Bronson Healthcare with the 2021 Employer of the Year Award,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association. “This award recognizes a private sector company that, in partnership with Michigan Works!, goes beyond the call of duty, continuously contributes to local job placement, and promotes education to maintain a skilled workforce. Congratulations to Bronson Healthcare on winning the award this year!”

Bronson Healthcare based in Kalamazoo, Michigan is a not-for-profit, community-governed health system serving nine counties in southwest and south central Michigan. With 8,400 employees and more than 1,500 medical staff members, Bronson is the largest employer and leading healthcare system in the region. It offers a full range of services from primary care to critical care across more than 100 locations. Key member organizations include: Bronson Methodist Hospital, Bronson Battle Creek Hospital, Bronson LakeView Hospital, Bronson South Haven Hospital, Bronson Medical Group, Bronson at Home, Bronson Commons, Bronson Athletic Club, Bronson Wellness Center and the Bronson Health Foundation.

The year 2020 will forever be synonymous with the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a tough year for all industries/employers across not only our local communities, but the State of Michigan and the nation. Perhaps none had a more difficult time than those in the healthcare industry. When “essential work” and “essential workers” are considered, we must first and foremost think of the individuals and employers comprising the healthcare sector who worked tirelessly on the front line of this pandemic to provide care and healing to so many.

“Bronson has been a very active partner with Michigan Works! Southwest as not only a member of the Employer Resource Network, but also through talent development and retention efforts with the Business Services Team, and as a Going PRO Talent Fund recipient in 2020,” said Ben Damerow, director of Michigan Works! Southwest. “While Bronson’s slogan ‘Bronson Positivity’ was truly put to the test this past year, they have continued to be a true leader and supporter of not just our community, but also workforce development in general.”

Bronson is an industry leader and regularly participates in MiCareerQuestTM Southwest, a career exploratory event for local eighth graders, and, during the last several months, has been working with Michigan Works! Southwest to establish several Registered Apprenticeships.

“It is very important to us to bring healthcare to the forefront for students as they consider their talents, interests and future careers, and to create career pathways and growth opportunities for our current workforce,” says Cheryl Johnson, chief people officer for the Bronson Healthcare system. “Partnering with Michigan Works! has helped us build school and community

relationships that connect more people with the many rewarding jobs Bronson has to offer. We are truly honored to be engaged in this work and to be recognized as the Michigan Works! Association Employer of the Year.”

Guest User 9/15/21 Guest User 9/15/21

Michigan Works! Recognizes Luann Dunsford as Champion of Workforce Development

LANSING, Mich. (Sep. 17, 2021) – The Michigan Works! Association recently honored Luann Dunsford for her service, dedication to and long-time support of the state’s talent and economic development efforts. Named a Michigan Works! Association 2021 Champion of Workforce Development, Dunsford received the award at the association’s annual conference.

“Champions of Workforce Development exemplify the highest standards of leadership, while recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to workforce development in Michigan,” said Ryan Hundt, chief executive officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “John is a perfect choice as he has dedicated his career to helping others better their lives through Michigan Works! programs.”

During her over 20-year career with the Michigan Works! Association, Dunsford worked closely with the Association’s Board of Directors to support its members and workforce partners by providing top-notch leadership resources, making valuable connections, and delivering high-impact events and training. She acted as a liaison between Association membership, key stakeholders, and partners as well as oversaw all day-to-day operations of the Association.

“Luann took particular pride in, and had great respect for, the coordination, cooperation and commitment that is exemplified within Michigan’s workforce system, working toward one goal to break down barriers so that all have the opportunity to prosper,” said Mark Berdan, executive director, Michigan Works! Region 7B. “Her belief that much more can be accomplished when working together is the bedrock of the relationships she developed, and the foundation for leading coordinated workforce advocacy and education efforts nationally and within the state.”

Dunsford retired in July 2021 after serving Michigan’s workforce system for 22 years.

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

Guest User 9/15/21 Guest User 9/15/21

Michigan Works! Recognizes John Bierbusse as Champion of Workforce Development

LANSING, Mich. (Sep. 16, 2021) – The Michigan Works! Association recently honored John Bierbusse for his service, dedication to and long-time support of the state’s talent and economic development efforts. Named a Michigan Works! Association 2021 Champion of Workforce Development, Bierbusse received the award at the Association’s annual conference.

Bierbusse served as the executive director of the Macomb/St. Clair Workforce Development Board since the creation of the organization in 1983. He led the organization through three major legislative initiatives – the Job Training Partnership Act, the Workforce Investment Act and the present Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. As executive director, Bierbusse led the local implementation of numerous workforce programs designed to address the workforce needs of public assistance recipients, dislocated workers, offenders, aging, and youth as well as the public.

“John dedicated his professional life to Macomb and St. Clair counties and his election as a Champion of Workforce Development is well deserved,” said Justin Al-Igoe, executive director of Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!. “He has left an incredible, positive impression on those who had the opportunity to work with him. Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! will carry on his dedication and spirit of service to the residents and businesses of our counties.”

Bierbusse retired in June 2021 after serving Michigan’s workforce system for 38 years.

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Guest User 9/15/21 Guest User 9/15/21

Michigan Works! Recognizes Bill Sleight as Champion of Workforce Development

LANSING, Mich. (Sep. 15, 2021) – The Michigan Works! Association recently honored Bill Sleight for his service, dedication to and long-time support of the state’s talent and economic development efforts. Named a Michigan Works! Association 2021 Champion of Workforce Development, Sleight received the award at the Association’s annual conference.

“Champions of Workforce Development exemplify the highest standards of leadership, while recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to workforce development in Michigan,” said Ryan Hundt, chief executive officer of the Michigan Works! Association. “Bill is a perfect choice as he has dedicated his career to helping others better their lives through Michigan Works! programs.”

When Sleight graduated from Michigan State University in 1977 with his master’s degree in Public Administration, he noticed an advertisement in the local newspaper for a Manpower Specialist and applied not knowing what he was applying for. Little did he know that the job he would eventually get would lead to a fulfilling career.

Over the course of his career, Sleight helped lead the merger of three different organizations – Livingston County Michigan Works!, South Central Michigan Works!, and Washtenaw County Michigan Works! – into Michigan Works! Southeast.

Receiving numerous awards from a variety of local, regional, and statewide agencies for his dedication to workforce development, Sleight committed his career to improving the lives of others.

“Bill, with 43 years of experience, was able to see the highs and lows of workforce development and this level of institutional knowledge allowed him to serve at a high capacity,” said. Shamar Herron, executive director of Michigan Works! Southeast. “Bill was a thoughtful leader in legislative affairs and helped creatively solve many programmatic issues. Bill’s knowledge will be missed and the Michigan Works! network is better because of his involvement.”

Sleight retired in June 2021 after serving Michigan’s workforce system for 43 years.

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Guest User 7/26/21 Guest User 7/26/21

Michigan Works! Association Announces Ryan Hundt as Chief Executive Officer

The Michigan Works! Association, the state’s primary workforce development association, recently named Ryan Hundt as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 9, 2021.

Contact: Steph Willis
Director of Communications
cell: 517.420.5137
communications@michiganworks.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LANSING, MI (July 26, 2021) – The Michigan Works! Association, the state’s primary workforce development association, recently named Ryan Hundt as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 9, 2021.

Hundt brings a wealth of experience to this role, as he has served in several capacities at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) over the past eight years, most recently as Regional Director of Growth and Development. Prior to that, Hundt served as Business Development Manager, Senior Program Manager and Project Coordinator.

“Ryan is the right person to lead the Michigan Works! Association into the future, given his strong command of economic and workforce development as well as his proven ability to drive results,” Michigan Works! Association Board Chair Charlie Mahoney said. “I look forward to working with Ryan – along with our entire leadership team – to ensure a seamless transition as we continue to grow as the premier workforce association serving Michigan’s talent growth.”

The appointment of Hundt follows a thorough recruitment process overseen by a special Michigan Work! Association Board CEO Search Committee who partnered with recruitment firm EctoHR.

“Ryan brings statewide experience, knowledge, and a passion for both workforce and economic development to his new role as CEO of the Michigan Works! Association,” said Jennifer Llewellyn, director of Oakland County Michigan Works! and chair of the Association’s Leadership Committee. “During his time at MEDC Ryan was engaged as an innovative partner and collaborator with the Michigan Works! network so we are excited to welcome him to lead the Association.”

Hundt’s economic development experience and understanding of the challenges Michigan faces regarding workforce development make him a great choice to lead Michigan’s premier workforce association.

“As talent continues to be a top priority for businesses and communities across the entire state, I look forward to working with a dedicated group of professionals and stakeholders to advance our workforce development priorities and ensure companies can continue to grow and be successful here in Michigan,” said Hundt.

Hundt earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Oakland University.

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Guest User 5/3/21 Guest User 5/3/21

Michigan Works! Helping Reopen Michigan’s Economy

Get “Back 2 Work Michigan” with assistance from Michigan Works! – your go-to post-pandemic talent partner

Contact: Steph Willis
Director of Communications
Cell: 517.420.5137
Email: communications@michiganworks.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LANSING, MI (May 3, 2021) – Over the past year, the Michigan Works! network strengthened its long-standing partnership with the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) by assisting with over 1.25 million calls, helping Michigan residents file claims, navigate accounts, and answer questions, producing positive results for hundreds of thousands of Michiganders. These accomplishments represent the work the Michigan Works! network did over and above the career and training services they offer to Michigan residents and the assistance they offer employers with their talent pipelines.

“Michigan Works! agencies across the state have always played an important role assisting the Unemployment Insurance Agency and displaced workers,” said Liza Estlund Olson, UIA Acting Director. “We thank them for going above and beyond throughout the pandemic by providing workers with advanced assistance on their unemployment claims. Our continued partnership during their transition will be essential as the Agency prepares to bring work search reporting requirements for UI claimants back online in the coming weeks.”

With the recent increase in vaccination eligibility and a shift toward economic recovery, the Michigan Works! network recognizes the need to pivot from focusing on unemployment issues back to its core mission of getting Michigan residents trained, educated, and back to work. The network is providing services to Michigan job seekers and employers virtually, by telephone, and by appointment over the course of the pandemic.

“At the beginning of the pandemic, we were in a period of emergency relief,” said Jacob Maas, CEO of West Michigan Works!. “We are now shifting into economic recovery. Knowing that the workforce environment is still volatile, we will continue to adapt and innovate to support employers as they return to pre-pandemic production and services.”

As Michigan’s economy starts to open back up things are going to look different than they did prior to the pandemic. The pandemic has greatly increased the number of individuals needing assistance with overcoming barriers to employment so they can achieve their career goals. Some of these barriers in include transportation, housing, child care, food, technology, and health care. Michigan Works! helps job seekers find supportive services to remove those barriers and then works with them to help them find employment.

As the unemployment rate continues to drop, we are beginning to see the remnants of the pre-pandemic economy. Michigan Works! is uniquely positioned to help rebuild Michigan’s economy due to the network’s access to apprenticeships and connections to employers across the state. Many employers are experiencing an increased and urgent need for employees in areas such as industrial, skilled trades, and administrative services. These employers have safety protocols in place and great jobs available.

“The lack of workers is the new pandemic,” John Metts, HR Manager, Springs Window Fashions. “We have had almost no response to our advertised positions. I have a stack of resumes the size of a ream of paper on my desk from an employment website. I have offered each of them an interview via the website and have had zero responses. We have raised our wages. We have tried contacting hundreds of employees who have placed their resumes online through the various employment services and have had zero responses. We can’t even get anyone to come in for an interview.”

Reskilling and increased training are going to play an important part in the state, and nation’s, economic recovery. Supply chains and business models have been severely disrupted and employers are now forced to pivot and reallocate their workers into unfamiliar roles. The upside of this situation is that it is revealing different employee skillsets, which allows employers to rethink the manner in which they distribute work. To help employers meet their evolving needs, the Michigan Works! network has increased its training offerings for job seekers in areas such as transportation, retail, robotics technicians, and CNC machine operations, just to name a few.

“Through the demand-driven approach, Michigan Works! partners with local employers, educators, economic developers, and community organizations to identify workforce needs and skills gaps in order to create a qualified workforce that addresses each region’s current and future talent needs, while, at the same time, fueling the state’s economic future,” said Luann Dunsford, CEO of the Michigan Works! Association. “As the economy recovers, the Michigan Works! network is here connecting job seekers with employers to fill their talent needs. Michigan Works! is your go-to source for workforce development during the economic recovery.”

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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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NEWS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Michigan Works! Association | mwassociation@michiganworks.org