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Guest User 4/7/22 Guest User 4/7/22

April is Internship Awareness Month

An internship is a good place for students to hone their knowledge base and increase their skillset.

It allows students to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-life situations which solidified their knowledge and improves performance and accuracy in work tasks.

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West Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

West Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in West Michigan

LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— West 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 the City of Grand Rapids, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Doug & Maria DeVos Foundation, as well as West Michigan Works! for implementing a new hiring system that provides equal access to opportunity in employment, while reducing barriers often found in the hiring process.

The City of Grand Rapids was in search of a new hiring system that would provide equal access to opportunity in employment, while reducing barriers that are often typical in a hiring process. With a strong commitment to fairness and diversity in selection, the city joined HireReach.

Many organizations face challenges transitioning to a competency-based hiring approach and the city was no exception. They needed to work alongside eight unions and a civil service commission, navigate the requirements of various labor agreements, and manage the challenges inherent in organizational change.

In 2018, the W.K. Kellogg and Doug & Maria DeVos Foundations funded a three-year program through West Michigan Works! to support employers in adopting HireReach. HireReach combines learning, training, peer learning and consulting support to help organizations adopt a fair and objective hiring process using evidence-based selection (EBS). HireReach provided half-day training workshops, individual consulting support, and ongoing implementation assistance to support the City of Grand Rapids in implementing evidence-based selection.

Through participating in HireReach, the City of Grand Rapids was able to successfully revamp their hiring process, transitioning from a complex, labor-intensive, and ineffective process to a modern, streamlined, science-based approach. This new hiring process has allowed the city to look at candidates holistically and as a result, candidates who might have been passed over with the previous hiring process are now being realized for their ability to do the job. The City of Grand Rapids is making better hiring decisions and providing employment opportunities for a broader, more diverse group of candidates.

"With HireReach, we have been able to hire based on competencies using high-quality tools to hire candidates and bring out the best in them, ensuring they are in the right role – which is great for our organization and the candidate,” said Desiree Foster, human resources director, City of Grand Rapids.

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 partnership West Michigan Works! has with employers is key to assisting them with their talent pipeline goals,” said Sen. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids). “The dedication West Michigan Works! has for helping employers makes them a huge asset to our community.”

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

“The pandemic has increased the number of challenges employers are facing,” said Rep. David LaGrand (D-Grand Rapids). “The City was facing hiring and retention issues. I am grateful to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Doug & Maria DeVos Foundation and West Michigan Works! for the assistance they were able to lend the City of Grand Rapids through HireReach.”

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 the City of Grand Rapids on winning this prestigious award,” said Rep. Rachel Hood (D-Grand Rapids). “I am thankful for collaborations like the one between the W.K. Kellogg and Doug & Maria DeVos Foundations and West Michigan Works! that assist employers with their talent needs.”

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 3/29/22 Guest User 3/29/22

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

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

Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Metro Detroit

LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Metro Detroit 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 Taylor Box, The Armored Group, as well as Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) Michigan Works! for offering on-the-job training opportunities to offer in-demand jobs and develop a talent pipeline.

In the winter of 2017, Justin Skibin, SEMCA Michigan Works! Business Services Professional, sent an email to The Armored Group’s Megan Davis regarding some potential hiring assistance after noting its job openings online.

The company responded to Skibin’s email right away, contacting him regarding the job openings the company had available and the Michigan Works! Business Services available to them. After recording the company’s job leads, Skibin also notified the company about the On-the-Job Training (OJT) option for its new hires. As a result, the company has participated in six OJT contracts with SEMCA Michigan Works! Livonia office including the most recent contract for Taylor Box, WIOA Dislocated Worker participant.

During her initial weeks in the OJT, the WIOA Program provided Box with supportive services in the form of gas cards to get to and from the worksite. Though her OJT is complete, and she has successfully been exited from the WIOA program, the company has kept up weekly contact.

They have also contacted Skibin regularly regarding conveying new job openings and events the company offers. The company has also specified interest in participating in Registered Apprenticeship Programs, Going PRO Talent Fund, and joining virtual job fairs in the future.

Additionally, networking has proven to be an asset in this relationship, as The Armored Group has referred two other companies to Skibin for potential hiring-related assistance. The relationship with The Armored Group has been great for many reasons and is only aiming to get stronger.

“The assistance Taylor received from SEMCA Michigan Works! helped him overcome barriers to find a great career opportunity,” said Sen. Betty Jean Alexander (D-Detroit). “On-the-Job Training is a great tool to provide individuals with the opportunity to prove themselves and earn a full-time career position.”

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

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

“Congratulations to Taylor on winning this great award,” said Sen. Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia). “Her wonderful experience with the On-the-Job training she participated in at The Armored Group serves as a great example to other job seekers of the opportunities available in our great state.”

“Kudos to SEMCA Michigan Works! for reaching out to The Armored Group to proactively assist them with their hiring needs,” said Rep. Rajeev Puri (D-Canton). “The services Michigan Works! offers to both employers and job seekers is key to continuing to develop the talent pipeline in our 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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Oakland County Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Oakland County Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Oakland County

LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Oakland County 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 Arin Minasian, Robert Bosch, LLC, U.S. Department of Labor, as well as Oakland County Michigan Works! for developing an apprenticeship in a high-demand field creating opportunities for growth.

Oakland County Michigan Works! is proud to partner with Robert Bosch, LLC to create an Application Developer Registered Apprenticeship program. As a leading and innovative employer in Oakland County, Robert Bosch is leading the way in talent development by investing in apprenticeship to create a skilled, qualified workforce for the future. The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services that employs roughly 394,500 associates worldwide.

The apprenticeship program lasts approximately 12 months and is a competency-based learning program. In the program, apprentices are required to complete specific learning hours and on-the-job training that has been outlined to ensure they are developing the skills and competencies essential to the role as an Application Developer.

They can learn and grow in a professional environment with real-world project work, job shadowing, intensive training, and exclusive mentoring. At the end of the program, apprentices who satisfy the program criteria are invited to join one of the mobility solutions divisions where they can continue to grow, develop, and contribute as a valuable team member.

Bosch launched this apprenticeship to address their talent gap and build a pipeline for their organization. They pursued talent not based upon education but on the skills, interests, and abilities of the individual to succeed in the industry. The mentoring program they have developed is outstanding!

Since 2020, Oakland County Michigan Works! Southfield supported nine apprenticeships with On-the-Job Training and four more are under development.

"We supported this employer because of their apprenticeship model and the need for Application/Software Developers,” said Oakland County Michigan Works! director Jennifer Llewellyn. “With this new apprenticeship, Bosch intended to hire individuals with little to no experience and give them the opportunity to gain skills in such a high-demand field with opportunity for growth.”

Arin Minasian, who had been working in home health care, was looking to begin a new career in software development. His interest in the software development field was so strong that he took a bootcamp course to gain skills in the field.

Minasian learned about the apprenticeship program and applied for it while living in California. When Bosch offered him the apprenticeship, he moved to Michigan while his wife stayed in California. Minasian was excited to begin the apprenticeship and a new life in Michigan!

Unfortunately, he did not have transportation when he first moved to Michigan, so Oakland County Michigan Works! Southfield purchased a bicycle for him to make his five-mile trek to work. The bike allowed him freedom to explore his new neighborhood and get to work. Minasian had completed his apprenticeship and recently graduated. Additionally, he and his wife bought a home in Oakland County.

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

“I am pleased to see community partners collaborating to bring talent and economic prosperity to our region and commend Arin on his accomplishments that led to this award,” said Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). “The daily effort Oakland County Michigan Works! puts into coordinating with local employers and other partners makes all the difference in talent development in this area.”

“Congratulations to Arin on winning this prestigious award,” said Rep. Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills). “I would like to thank Robert Bosch, LLC for developing the Application Developer Registered Apprenticeship program, providing opportunities to Michigan residents to gain on-the-job training that leads to a good-paying, meaningful 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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Northwest Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts at State Capitol

Northwest Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts at State Capitol

Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Northwest Michigan

LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022)— Northwest 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 Jill Ponstein, Kalkaska Memorial Health Center, Penn Foster/Industrial Training Solutions, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Apprenticeship, as well as Northwest Michigan Works! for offering an apprenticeship in an in-demand field that leads to a fulfilling career.

During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jill Ponstein noticed that weekly dinners with her mom and sister became only 30 minutes long because they both had to get back to their jobs at Kalkaska Memorial Health Center (KMCH) where they were working nearly around the clock. Ponstein said she felt helpless, so when she saw a posting for a Medical Assistant Apprenticeship opportunity offered by Northwest Michigan Works!, in partnership with Kalkaska Memorial, she applied.

Ponstein’s educational and employment background was in business, but she says she had always been interested in healthcare. She has even started to attend a local community college focused on obtaining her Medical Assistant certification. But balancing school, work, and family made that difficult, so she put her education on hold until her youngest child was enrolled in school. Ponstein said the apprenticeship allowed her to get her education and training while balancing her other responsibilities.

“I was so excited to start in a career that always piqued my interest,” said Ponstein. “Michigan Works! helped tremendously by making sure I had the tools to complete my job. They provided me with scrubs, shoes, and a stethoscope with no cost to me.”

The U.S. Department of Labor Registered Medical Assistant Apprenticeship included paid on-the-job learning and online related technical instruction along with guidance from professional mentors. The program’s work-based learning strategy allowed Jill to get her training without having to pay for classes.

“Kalkaska Memorial Health Center was finding it difficult to recruit Medical Assistants to meet the needs of our growing family medicine practice,” said director of Employee Relations at Kalkaska Memorial Health Center Heather Soenksen. “Identified barriers for community members to train in healthcare careers included the difficulty in juggling school, work, and educational expenses. The apprenticeship partnership with Northwest Michigan Works! offers the career opportunity in our community for paid on-the-job learning and paid online related technical instruction along with guidance from professional mentors.”

Ponstein successfully completed her apprenticeship program and is now mentoring others as a Certified Medical Assistant. Her aspirations to continue her education and cultivate her career pathway growth include learning additional skills within the healthcare system.

"Penn Foster is proud to have worked closely with Northwest Michigan Works! and Kalkaska Memorial Health Center to create and launch their first ever Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program,” said Rick Bruno, Penn Foster, educational partner. “The collaboration was made simple due to the passion shared by all three parties, jointly pursuing a common goal of expanding apprenticeship into the Allied Health arena. Further, apprentice Jill Ponstein took full advantage of the program, completing the challenging self-paced training at an amazing pace with a very impressive overall average of 93. The Kalkaska program should serve as a model for other healthcare facilities, as a way to recruit and retain workers in these difficult times. I look forward to continuing to work with Kalkaska, with the assistance of Northwest Michigan Works!, as well as looking forward to the career journey that Jill’s training takes her on!”

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

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

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

“I commend Kalkaska Memorial Health Center, Penn Foster, the U.S. Department of Labor and Northwest Michigan Works! for their partnership on this great program that helps fill the need for high-demand jobs in our region,” said Rep. Daire Rendon (R-Lake City). “Congratulations to Jill on accomplishing her goals and to the team at Northwest Michigan Works! for all they do to assist the residents in our community with their needs and career goals.”

The Association’s work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan’s talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.

Find the nearest Michigan Works! American Job Center by visiting https://www.michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Central Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Central Michigan Talent Development Successes Honored by State Leaders, Workforce Experts

Lawmakers Celebrate Local Talent, Career Development Efforts in Central Michigan

LANSING, MI (March 24, 2022) — Central 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 March 24, in Lansing to recognize local resident Jessica Liggett, Pere Marquette River Lodge, Mason-Lake Adult Education as well as Michigan Works! West Central for overcoming barriers to build the confidence needed to find a new career and providing rewarding job opportunities in the community.

Liggett has struggled with reading and speech her entire life. These barriers prevented her from finding success for years, and subsequently had a negative impact on her self-confidence. So, when she entered the Mason-Lake Adult Education program to earn her high school diploma, she was very unsure of herself and the journey she was about to begin.

"Jessica was a hardworking and dedicated student in the Mason-Lake Adult Education program,” said Liz Stark, Mason-Lake Adult Education director. “She came to us unsure of herself and her own abilities. In the last few years, Jessica has earned her high school diploma and completed the Transitions program for post-secondary study. Jessica is now confident and happy with what she has accomplished!”

Through a lot of hard work and dedication, Liggett was able to complete her diploma in spring 2016, and was ready to enter the workforce. However, she still lacked the self-confidence she would need to find success. Michigan Works! West Central’s Talent Specialists were able to help Liggett complete several mock interviews to help prepare her for the real thing. Michigan Works! West Central also was able to provide her with new clothing for job interviews.

Although Liggett was not hired following her first interview with a local employer, it did make her feel more confident going into her next job interview. Because she felt more prepared and confident, the interview with Pere Marquette River Lodge was a success, and she was hired in April 2021. For the first time in her life, she was able to obtain a full-time job to provide for herself and her household.

"It’s overwhelming,” said Liggett. “I’ve had a lot of support from a lot of people. I love this job. This is my second home. Anna has been the best friend I’ve ever had, and I think it’s a really good match that I’m here.”

Liggett’s strong work ethic allowed her to take on more responsibility at the Lodge and even earned her a pay increase. At the lodge, she helps with housekeeping in the cabins and around the main lodge, keeps the kitchen and dining areas clean, and more.

“When I interviewed Jessica, she said to me, ‘No one else will hire me,’” said Anna Riling, Pere Marquette River Lodge owner. “I could not imagine that and thought everyone should have a shot. I’ve watched her change a lot. At first, she was a little timid, because we’re a big group to take on. Now she’s one of us. Her confidence has built, and it’s just been beautiful to watch that. She just keeps on going, taking on more and more responsibility and she’s good at it!”

“Jessica 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. “Her hard work, dedication and positive attitude helped her achieve her career goals. Congratulations on winning this prestigious award, Jessica!”

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 Jessica for working hard to achieve your dreams and build a rewarding career.”

The Michigan Works! Association is a nonprofit membership organization that provides services and support to Michigan’s talent ecosystem. For more than 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 michiganworks.org/michigan-works-network or by calling (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).

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Guest User 3/29/22 Guest User 3/29/22

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 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 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 3/29/22 Guest User 3/29/22

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.”

“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 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

Michigan Works! Association | mwassociation@michiganworks.org