The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has awarded more than $2 million in grants to nine programs to help employers fill their talent needs. These programs connect adult education participants in the state directly with employers by linking adult education, career and technical skills and workforce development.
Programs that receive funding will work with the Michigan Works! network to identify a cohort of participants who are most prepared to successfully enter the workforce. Participants must be working toward achieving their high school diploma or its equivalency or receiving remediation services through one of the funded adult education programs.
“Providing this connection between adult learners and local employers greatly increases the employability and earning potential of Michigan’s citizens,” Stephanie Beckhorn, director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training, said. “This program helps fill the current talent gap by educating workers with the in-demand skills Michigan businesses are looking for.”
Students will receive technical training in a wide variety of areas, including construction trades, healthcare, information technology, machining, robotics and welding.
Participants will work with an adult education navigator to design an educational program best suited to their personal and employment needs. The navigator will also support participants by connecting them to supportive services, such as transportation and daycare.
Programs collaborate with employers to develop and implement these programs, ensuring services and instruction align with the needs of local employers, and to also obtain commitment to provide employment opportunities to students who successfully complete the program. Michigan Works! provides information regarding careers that align with local labor market information, employability and soft skills training, resume writing and employer connections to participants to obtain employment in a specific in-demand occupation.
