News and Success Stories

Michigan Works! Southwest Director, Ben Damerow, joined the Governor’s signing of an executive order creating the new Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, a re-organization of the Department of Talent and Economic Development. Read more here!

In an ongoing effort to offer customized solutions for employers’ hiring needs, Michigan Works! Southwest staff have been dedicated to the creation and implementation of innovative, non-traditional apprenticeship training programs.

Ashley Iovieno, Business Services Coordinator for Michigan Works! Southwest, participated in the Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) NLN Summit on May 6 with close to 80 attendees from 16 states.

The Road Commission of Kalamazoo County (RCKC) took home two IMPRESS Awards at the County Road Association (CRA) of Michigan’s statewide 2019 Highway Conference in March.

“Michigan Works! Southwest has been a vital partner in increasing our business outreach strategies. They have assisted us in finding much-needed talent within our community and providing support during the implementation of our Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program…”

“KALAMAZOO, MI — Michigan Works of Southwest Michigan is taking applications for Vision for Prosperity, a program designed to help Kalamazoo County residents qualify for apprenticeships.”

“Friday, leaders of Gov. Whitmer’s cabinet hosted her post-State of the State “Home for Opportunity Tour” in Battle Creek with an executive roundtable that focused on helping local employers fill their talent pipeline with qualified workers…”

“Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s post-State of the State “Home for Opportunity Tour” began on Friday, with members of the governor’s administration hosting a roundtable at Kellogg Community College’s Regional Manufacturing Technology Center.”

The Going PRO Talent Fund, also known as simply the Talent Fund, provides funding to employers for customized short-term training to enhance the skills of current employees, encourage new hires and expand apprenticeship programs.

The Road Commission of Kalamazoo County (RCKC) is proud to announce the approval to move forward with the Municipal Maintenance Technician (Roadway Technician) Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Michigan Works! Southwest recently announced a local initiative designed to develop talent and increase the local employment rate…

Michigan Works! Southwest is committed to ensuring that our local workforce is trained, educated
and employment ready, and that our local employers are fully equipped with the talent needed to
succeed in the ever-changing economy.