Ryba Marine Construction Co. operates in the highly specialized field of marine construction and dredging—an industry that depends on rigorous training, certifications, and a versatile workforce. Through a partnership with Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium, Ryba received $4,000 in Going PRO Talent Fund support to train two current employees and hire and train two new team members, with starting wages averaging $30 per hour. Training provided by Great Lakes Maritime Academy

With support from Michigan Works! and the WIOA and PATH programs, Hope took a big step toward a rewarding, flexible healthcare career by enrolling in MedCertify’s Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding, and Electronic Health Records program. Earning nationally recognized credentials was a strong motivator. Hope completed training in all three areas and gained in-demand skills that open doors to remote work, career growth, and increased earning potential. U

Driven by a deep passion for caring for others and a desire for a meaningful, challenging career, Baylee set her sights on becoming a Registered Nurse. Inspired by a lifetime of helping family members with disabilities-including grandmothers living with rheumatoid arthritis and dementia, she developed a strong sense of empathy and responsibility at an early age. Volunteering at an assisted living facility further solidified her love for working with the elderly and confirmed

Carly had experience in the dental field, but without certification, advancing her career felt out of reach. Determined to turn her background into a lasting profession, she enrolled in the Clinical Dental Assistant program at North Central Michigan College. The short-term format made it possible to gain the credentials she needed without a long-time commitment. Like many adult learners, finances were a barrier. With support from Michigan Works!, Carly received tuition assist

When Brittany enrolled in Kirtland Community College’s Nursing program, she was driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Her empathy and resilience, shaped by life experience, guided her toward a career in healthcare. Like many adult learners, she faced real challenges—limited finances, time constraints, young children, and transportation needs that made higher education feel overwhelming. Encouraged by a friend, she turned to Michigan Works! for

Victoria came to the Grayling Michigan Works! office seeking tuition assistance with a clear goal: obtain her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and build a long-term career in commercial driving. With prior experience in industrial manufacturing and construction, she recognized that many in-demand roles—ranging from industrial freight transportation to heavy equipment operation, crane operation, emergency vehicle transport, and waste management—require a CDL. With combined fu