Michigan Works! Southwest, becomes an Intermediary in partnership with the USDOL Office of Apprenticeship

SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN – On Thursday, August 15, representatives from Michigan Works! Southwest and the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) gathered for a signing event in which Michigan Works! Southwest officially became an intermediary with the USDOL to hold standards for apprenticeship programs. Michigan Works! Southwest Workforce Development Board members, Brian O’Donnell and Frank Tecumseh, as well as Kristine Stevens from Glen Oaks Community College, were also in attendance.

“As an intermediary with the USDOL Office of Apprenticeship, Michigan Works! Southwest is supporting employers looking to start or grow apprenticeship training programs,” said Ashley Iovieno, Michigan Works! Southwest Business Solutions Director, “The Michigan Works! Southwest Business Solutions Team is excited to bring this additional service to area employers and employees who are seeking to enhance their skill sets through a registered apprenticeship.”

As partners of the USDOL’s Office of Apprenticeship, Michigan Works! Southwest will continue to play a crucial role in connecting businesses with apprenticeship programs and ensuring the smooth operation of these programs. An apprenticeship intermediary is a third-party organization or individual that connects employers and apprenticeships. Becoming an intermediary has allowed Michigan Works! Southwest to provide employers with a streamlined recruitment and placement process, training and support, assistance with compliance and administration, advice and guidance, as well as assistance with quality assurance.

“As an intermediary for registered apprenticeships, Michigan Works! Southwest will serve as a crucial facilitator, supporting employers with hiring, training, and retaining talent,” said Jakki Bungart-Bibb, Director of Michigan Works! Southwest.

For more information about Michigan Works! Southwest’s ability to assist with apprenticeships, please visit www.michiganworkssouthwest.org/employers/apprenticeships