News and Success Stories

February is Career and Technical Education Month, and Michigan Works! Southwest is proud to highlight the great work being done at the Branch Area Careers Center! The Branch Area Careers Center (BACC) is dedicated to service students from Branch County and the surrounding region by providing 14 innovative Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. These…

In her role as Employer Resource Network® (ERN®) Director – SWM ERN®, Kelli is an exceptional leader whose unwavering dedication to the ERN® does not go unnoticed. Her guidance, advocacy, clear communication, and support are instrumental in her team’s success and the work they do. Kelli is known for supporting her team, leading by example,…

Tamara is a hard worker who does whatever it takes to assist her team and complete the tasks put in front of her. She is known for finding ways to improve processes, for paying close attention to detail, and for being a team player. Her readiness to assist when her co-workers need help alongside her…

India Johnson is a youth who came to Michigan Works! Southwest in June of 2022 and was enrolled in WIOA Youth programming. India had been facing barriers to obtaining employment after receiving her high school diploma and completing classroom instruction toward her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification. She was eager to become a CNA and…

Sebastian is always eager to assist customers and demonstrates a true desire to help those around him. His dedication extends beyond his own clients to every individual who enters the Michigan Works! Southwest Service Centers. He is known for consistently coming to work with a smile and a laid-back attitude that helps others feel at…

Michigan Works! Southwest celebrated the 10th Annual National Apprenticeship Week with an Apprenticeship Roadtrip! On November 20, 2024, MWSW staff visited local businesses leading the way in Apprenticeship Programs to say thank you for their hard work, dedication, and continued partnership with Michigan Works! Southwest. Watch the video here:

View the Michigan Works! Southwest 2024 Annual Report:

Denise is known for getting things done. Her efforts in scheduling Employer of the Day events, assisting employers as they navigate Pure Michigan Talent Connect, creating the Job Seeker Newsletter, and assisting as customers enter the service center, are integral functions that support the Business Solutions Team’s mission. Your positive attitude, willingness to help everyone,…

This fall, Michigan Works! Southwest staff accompanied nine students on an industry tour hosted by Brick and Brine, a popular local restaurant. Students sampled a three-course meal, viewed an informative video, and participated in discussions focused on culinary hospitality, which provided valuable insights into the industry’s customer service and guest experience elements! The tour included…

Julie consistently goes above and beyond expectations, demonstrating strong leadership, teamwork, and a positive attitude. Her attention to detail, commitment to excellence, and willingness to assist colleagues whenever needed, makes her an invaluable asset to Michigan Works! Southwest. Weather facing challenges or opportunities, Julie approaches every task with enthusiasm and professionalism, setting an inspiring example…

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – On Tuesday, September 10, Lynn Page, Business Solutions Coordinator for Michigan Works! Southwest, received the 2024 Shining Star Award for the Branch, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, and St. Joseph County service area. The Shining Star Award celebrates Michigan Works! Agency front line staff who, through dedication and outstanding contributions to workforce development, personify the…

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – On Tuesday, September 10, Duncan Aviation received the 2024 Employer of the Year Award at the Annual Michigan Works! Conference. The Employer of the Year Award highlights a private sector employer that, in partnership with a Michigan Works! Agency, goes beyond the call of duty, continuously contributing to local job-placement, and promoting…