$3 million investment helps young people overcome barriers to job success and build brighter futures in Michigan

Young Professionals Initiative provides an introduction to the world of work, including career exploration, job skills, and income

Lansing, Michigan — Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) today announced a total of $3 million in funding to provide young adults and young adults with a meaningful introduction to the world of work, including field jobs and hybrid jobs. Announcing the recipients of expert grants. Virtual career exploration and preparation activities, job skills, and income.

“The Young Professionals Initiative is an investment in the next generation of workforce leaders and another part of our strategy to attract and retain talent here in Michigan,” he said. governor whitmer. “By expanding career and educational opportunities for young people, we can create a brighter future for everyone, no matter who they are or where they live. Reducing the cost of training and higher education. Let’s continue to work together to invest in tabletop issues that make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Young Professionals grants were awarded to 16 Michigan factories. Agencies that support the creation and/or strengthening of locally developed young professional employment initiatives to meet the unique needs of the communities they serve.

“The Young Professionals Initiative helps our state’s young people, including those with disabilities and other barriers to employment, find and pursue meaningful career opportunities right here in Michigan,” said LEO Director. Stated. Susan Corbin. “By giving Michigan’s young people the tools and access they need to get high-skilled, in-demand, high-paying jobs, we can build a brighter future for Michigan and help secure Michigan’s future. It positions us for continued financial success.”

Young Professionals supports youth and young adults aged 14 to 24 who face barriers to employment, providing them with multiple career and education opportunities, including gaining work experience and completing highly sought-after short-term training certificates. We provide

“Young professionals are allowing our Michigan plant! Our partners are taking a regional approach to supporting young people, closing capital gaps, addressing talent shortages, and removing barriers to employment.” It will be helpful.” Stephanie Beckhorn, Director of LEO Employment and Training Office. “This is an investment that will put Michigan’s youth on the right path to achieving lifelong economic self-sufficiency.”

Michigan Works! We provide career preparation, employment opportunities, and support services throughout the state. These agencies play a critical role in meeting the talent needs of employers, with a focus on industries that are in high demand in the region, including construction, energy, healthcare, hospitality and outdoor recreation, information technology, manufacturing, and mobility. I am fulfilling my role.

In 2023, 914 youth and young adults participated in young professional activities. This includes his 267 participants who enrolled at the Oakland County Michigan Plant. Programs with 62 employers provide 149 Michigan youth with valuable work experience opportunities.

For students participating in the Young Professionals Program, experiences and successes cover a range of career interests and paths.

One student also participated through Michigan Works! Region 7B, which serves Arenac, Clare, Gladwyn, Iosco, Ogemaw and Roscommon counties, has completed work experience for young professionals in local police departments. He then enrolled in Kirtland Community College’s criminal justice program and plans to work in law enforcement in the future.

Another student participant gained work experience at a local newspaper and was offered a full-time position with the company several months after completing the program. Similarly, another student completed a young professional work experience at a local airport. He chose to further his education and become a pilot.

“Providing real-world employment experience is critical to guiding young people into careers that align with their aspirations,” said Upper Peninsula Michigan Works CEO. Deb Brunell. “Connecting with businesses in your area opens your eyes and hearts to the possibilities of what’s happening in your own backyard. It’s hard to be invisible, so it’s hard to be successful. It’s important to expose and explore careers in your teens so that you can make informed decisions. Funding for young professionals will help our young people access the great opportunities in our region. It’s helpful.”

Click here for the Michigan Works award distribution list! agency:

Funding to support young professionals is provided through the Governor’s Preparation Fund to help prepare the workforce of the future, keep young people in Michigan, and provide in-demand skills and advanced education that benefits individuals, employers, and communities. We strategically support the acquisition of post-educational qualifications.

Parents and young Michiganders should contact their local Michigan plant. Agency to find out what programs are available to support your academic and career training goals. Please contact your local Michigan factory. Call our Service Center at 800-285-WORKS (9675) or visit Michigan.gov/MichiganWorks.

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