Building Confidence Helps Alcona Youth Win Multiple Awards

Ethan began working with Michigan Works! in December of 2024 seeking assistance with leadership and employability skills and was enrolled in the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program. Throughout his time in working with Michigan Works!, Ethan has experienced several barriers inhibiting him in meeting goals such as obtaining his driver’s license and joining different work experiences. By meeting regularly with his Michigan Works! Youth Career Advisor Mitchel Dipzinski, Ethan has worked through those barriers while also achieving high marks in school and extra-curricular activities. While in the JMG program, Ethan has really built up his confidence, engaging in leadership, employability, and education skills training, as well as his time-management and communication skills.

One of Ethan’s goals throughout high school was to win a Michigan Industrial Technology Education award and receive a plaque. In his final year, Ethan submitted several woodworking projects to the competition, and was pleased to win several awards, including a 1st place plaque! Ethan was OVERJOYED to share his success with his Advisor Mitchel, showing him the projects he submitted and the awards he won.