Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department Receives 2025 Employer of the Year Award

Sheriff Todd Ross, Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium CEO, Jessica Topp, and Jail Administrator, Brenda Beckwith, and Sgt. Michelle Meldrum

LANSING, Mich. (Sept. 9, 2025) – The Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department has been honored as the 2025 Employer of the Year by the Michigan Works! Association for going beyond the call of duty – not only in public safety but also in workforce development.

Named the association’s 2025 Employer of the Year, the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department was recognized for working with Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium to implement a registered apprenticeship program. The program creates clear, hands-on pathways in corrections and public safety, addressing both regional workforce shortages and barriers to employment.

“The Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department’s commitment to innovation and opportunity has transformed their hiring practices and strengthened public safety in the region,” said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. “They are a standout partner who always goes above and beyond and we are honored to recognize them as this year’s Employer of the Year.”

The Employer of the Year award highlights an employer that works in partnership with a Michigan Works! agency and goes above and beyond to contribute to local job placement, while promoting education to maintain a skilled workforce. It was presented at the Michigan Works! Annual Conference in Kalamazoo.

Established in 1987, the Michigan Works! Association fosters high-quality employment and training programs serving employers and workers by providing support activities and a forum for information exchange for Michigan's talent development system. For more information, visit http://www.michiganworks.org, or call (517) 371-1100.

A Bright Future for Public Safety

The recognition of the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department as the 2025 Employer of the Year highlights the crucial role of workforce development in public safety. Through its groundbreaking apprenticeship program and deep community engagement, the department sets a clear example for others to follow.

As law enforcement continues to adapt, the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Department showcases the positive impacts of dedicated workforce development. The future of public safety in Cheboygan County looks promising, thanks to the department's relentless efforts to cultivate a skilled and committed workforce.