From Layoff to Leadership: How Michigan Works! Helped Nicole Launch Smart Starts Playschool

When Nicole’s seasonal teaching position with NEMSCA ended, she found herself facing unemployment. Unsure of her next steps, she turned to Michigan Works! for help filing her Unemployment Insurance (UIA) claim. After completing her UIA Register for Work Requirement, Nicole attended a required RESEA Workshop at her local Michigan Works! office. There, she was introduced to a variety of available services—including résumé writing, interviewing tips, and career guidance.

A few months later, Nicole was selected by UIA to attend a second RESEA Workshop. This time, something clicked. She learned more about training programs and tuition assistance available through Michigan Works!, and a new idea began to take shape: what if she opened her own in-home preschool or daycare?

Nicole partnered with Career Navigator Jessica and Career Advisor Chelsea to begin exploring her options. With their support, she applied for tuition assistance and enrolled in the Professional Bookkeeping & QuickBooks Fast-Track Course at North Central Michigan College. Thanks to WIOA Dislocated Worker funding and DWG Auto Grant support, Michigan Works! was able to fully fund her training.

In just two months, Nicole completed the course and earned her Bookkeeping Certificate. Today, she is the proud owner and lead caregiver of Smart Starts Playschool in Gaylord, Michigan. Fully employed year-round and making a lasting impact in her community, Nicole has turned a temporary setback into a thriving small business—proving that with the right support, a fresh start is always possible.