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David graduated this past December from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science. While his degree prepared him well for the field, it did not include phlebotomy training—an essential skill for most laboratory scientists in Northern Michigan. After being offered a position as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Otsego Memorial Hospital, David learned he needed to obtain his phlebotomy certification before he could begin work. However, the cost of the program was beyond his budget. That’s when he turned to Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium. Michigan Works! was able to cover the full cost of David’s phlebotomy training, removing a major financial barrier and allowing him to focus fully on learning. During the program, David gained hands-on experience drawing blood, practiced professional workplace skills, and completed a five-day hospital shadowing experience to strengthen his confidence. Now certified and debt-free, David feels prepared and comfortable performing lab draws. He will begin his new position at Otsego Memorial Hospital in February, earning nearly $30 per hour along with a sign-on bonus. David’s story highlights how targeted training support can bridge the gap between education and employment—and help talented individuals step directly into in-demand careers.

Devon is a motivated young man with a strong work ethic and a clear goal: to build a rewarding career. To move forward, he needed to earn his Class A CDL, but the cost of training was a major barrier. After connecting with Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium, Devon received help finding a training program close to home, along with tuition assistance and mileage reimbursement. He enrolled at Road Warrior Truck Driving School, where he found a supportive environment. Although he didn’t pass the road test on his first attempt, Devon persevered and succeeded on his second try. Devon is now a proud Class A CDL holder, opening the door to new opportunities. He plans to work in North Carolina this summer while continuing his employment with J&R Building Movers, where he can now drive their company trucks.

When Keila began the tuition assistance application process with Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium, she was working as a contingent LPN while pursuing her Registered Nurse degree at Alpena Community College. Balancing full-time coursework with part-time employment made finances tight, and the application process took extra time as she worked through the required steps. Her perseverance paid off. Keila was awarded tuition assistance for the Winter and Fall 2025 semesters, helping relieve financial stress and allowing her to stay focused on her education. Keila has since graduated from Alpena Community College with her RN credential and is now preparing to take the NCLEX to become a licensed registered nurse. She will also be starting her new role as a graduate nurse at MyMichigan Saginaw in the coming weeks.

Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium is proud to share the inspiring story of Jason, a determined job seeker from Oscoda County who refused to let financial barriers stand in the way of his future. Jason had a clear vision: earn his Class A CDL and take the next step toward becoming self-employed in the forestry industry. Lacking the funds for training, that goal felt just out of reach—until he connected with Michigan Works! By leveraging funding from multiple grants, Michigan Works! provided tuition assistance that allowed Jason to enroll at Road Warriors Truck Driving School and begin his journey. Through dedication and hard work, Jason successfully completed his CDL-A training and earned his license. This achievement didn’t just open a new door—it gave Jason the tools to strengthen and grow his own business. Jason’s story is a powerful reminder that when determination meets opportunity, real change happens.

Rayhanna came to Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium with a clear goal: earn her GED and pursue a future with the National Guard. With determination, hard work, and support from Michigan Works! Youth Career Advisor Erin O’Rourke, she took important steps toward making that goal a reality. After months of study, tutoring, and perseverance—especially through the challenging math portion—Rayhanna successfully earned her GED in August. She then shifted focus to the ASVAB exam and, through dedicated preparation, passed in October. Rayhanna also toured the Michigan Army National Guard MATES facility in Grayling with Recruiter Ryan Kline, where she explored career pathways and learned more about military service. In November, Rayhanna was officially inducted into the National Guard at Camp Grayling. She is now preparing to leave for basic training in South Carolina this April. Rayhanna’s journey reflects the power of perseverance and supportive career guidance. Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium is proud to have supported her and wishes her continued success as she begins this next chapter.

Travis came to Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium looking for help earning his Class A CDL so he could move from a seasonal role into a full-time position with the Cheboygan County Road Commission. Without his CDL, he was limited to summer work and unable to advance. Michigan Works! was able to assist Travis with tuition support, allowing him to enroll at Road Warriors Truck Driving School and successfully earn his CDL-A. With this credential, Travis gained not only new skills, but new opportunities. Grateful for the support he received, Travis shared that the experience taught him the importance of taking initiative—while also knowing it’s okay to ask for help along the way. Since then, Travis has relocated downstate and is now using his CDL-A to pursue new employment opportunities, with support from his local Michigan Works! office as he continues his career journey.

Jan 12 — Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium coordinated a career exploration event at Atlanta Schools, bringing together students, industry insight, and real-world career pathways in the skilled trades. Apprenticeship Success Coordinator Jeremiah Johnston led the event, presenting an overview of Registered Apprenticeships to 15 students and explaining how apprenticeships combine paid, hands-on training with classroom instruction to create a direct pathway to in-demand, high-wage careers—often without student debt. As part of Michigan Works!’ She Builds: Women in Skilled Trades Exploration and Mentorship Series , Brandie Meisner, President of M & M Excavating, also spoke with students, sharing her personal journey in the construction industry. Brandie highlighted the strong demand for skilled trades careers, their earning potential, and the critical need for more women in these fields—particularly in rural communities where exposure to these opportunities can be limited. Together, the presentations helped dispel common misconceptions about the skilled trades, provided students with practical, real-world perspectives, and reinforced that careers in construction and other trades are both accessible and rewarding—even for young women! Through coordination with Atlanta Schools and local industry partners, Michigan Works! continues to connect students to meaningful career pathways while elevating women leaders through initiatives like She Builds .

Christina Southwell & Jennifer Coughlin, Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium Business Solutions Professionals with Greg Spencer, Weyerhaeuser Mill Manager, and Tom Wesner, Human Resources. With support from Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium, Weyerhaeuser was awarded $51,493.48 through the Going PRO Talent Fund to provide training for 59 employees, including six new hires. The funding supported a range of industry-specific trainings designed to strengthen skills, support innovation, and prepare the workforce for continued growth. Weyerhaeuser has been a cornerstone of the Grayling community since August 20, 1982, when it opened its first-ever oriented strand board (OSB) plant—one of the earliest OSB mills in North America. Built in response to growing demand for a cost-effective alternative to plywood, the Grayling mill has evolved into a modern, well-invested facility. Over the decades, it has established a strong legacy rooted in continuous technological advancement, collaborative work practices, workforce loyalty, and a deep commitment to safety, sustainability, and community engagement. The Going PRO-funded training helped further develop the skills of Weyerhaeuser’s workforce across multiple roles. Two Maintenance Technicians completed the Danfoss Industrial Hydraulics course, gaining a strong understanding of hydraulic fundamentals, calculations, and industrial applications. Eleven Maintenance Technicians attended the ControlLogix/Studio 5000 course and are now confident in troubleshooting and restoring operational ControlLogix systems—an essential skill in maintaining efficient plant operations. In addition, Process Technician Jerry Stillwagon completed a statistics course focused on fundamentals, Taguchi methods for cost reduction and robust product design, and managing controllable and uncontrollable variation in trials. “I am confident that I can use the knowledge gained from this course to run trials at a reduced cost with more robust results,” Jerry shared. Through the Going PRO Talent Fund, Weyerhaeuser continues to invest in its people—strengthening technical expertise, improving operational efficiency, and positioning the Grayling mill for its next phase of growth while maintaining its long-standing commitment to the local community.

As Scribbles and Giggles Daycare continues to grow, the organization made a strategic decision to invest in developing leadership from within. Braeden Robbins was selected by her employer to step into the role of Director’s Assistant as a USDOL Registered Apprentice, working closely with Owner and Director Jennifer Wilson. Through the apprenticeship program, Braeden was able to earn while she learned, combining hands-on training at work with college coursework. Balancing a full-time job, motherhood, and classes was challenging, but Braeden consistently demonstrated dedication, strong time-management skills, and a commitment to advancing her career in early childhood education. Jennifer Wilson noted that Braeden consistently exhibits key leadership qualities, including integrity, honesty, problem-solving abilities, and valuable hands-on experience in the field. The apprenticeship allowed her to immediately apply classroom lessons to daily operations, strengthening the business while building her professional skills. Upon completing the USDOL Registered Apprenticeship Program, Braeden earned a nationally recognized certificate and received increased wages, reflecting her expanded responsibilities and the advanced training she completed. Braeden’s journey highlights how Registered Apprenticeships provide working parents with career growth opportunities, strengthen businesses, and create clear pathways for success through the earn-while-you-learn model.

Maurice came to Michigan Works! seeking assistance with filing his Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) claim after his previous position as a Certified Nurse Aide ended. As an older Veteran with limited computer skills, Maurice appreciated the hands-on support he received in completing his claim and fulfilling the UIA Register for Work requirement. Over the next several months, Maurice continued to use the Michigan Works! Resource Room for weekly job searches and bi-weekly UIA certifications. With support from Business Solutions Professional Jennifer Coughlin, he completed and submitted multiple job applications directly to employers. During his job search, Maurice also took advantage of several free Michigan Works! workshops. After attending the Basic Computer Skills workshop, he shared that he was pleasantly surprised by how much he had already learned simply by using the Resource Room and completing online applications. He also participated in the Mock Interview and What Employers Expect workshop, where he received resume and interview tips, feedback on his responses, and insight into what employers are looking for during the hiring process. Through these conversations, Jennifer gained a better understanding of Maurice’s goals and recommended a Veteran-friendly employer—The Landing Zone—as a strong fit. Maurice was looking for more than just a job; he wanted meaningful work that would help him stay connected to the community. He completed a paper application for a maintenance position, which Jennifer delivered to the employer the same day. Shortly thereafter, Maurice was offered an interview and was hired, starting work almost immediately. In his new role, he performs regular building maintenance and is learning to maintain and service bowling lanes and behind-the-scenes equipment. Maurice enjoys working alongside fellow Veterans, feeling connected to the community, and benefiting from a job located just five minutes from his home. The Landing Zone management has also expressed appreciation for the partnership. Tony Sharkey, Manager of The Landing Zone, shared, “Michigan Works! is so easy to work with, providing fabulous, fast service. They excel at connecting the right job seekers with providers that fit. It’s always a pleasure working with them.” Maurice’s story is a great example of how individualized support and strong employer partnerships lead to successful outcomes for both job seekers and businesses.

Katie’s journey through education and career development was not without challenges. Struggling in school, she often felt uncertain about her future and unsure of the path ahead. In June 2023, Katie enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program at Michigan Works! determined to overcome barriers and build a brighter future. Shortly after enrolling, she was referred to IOSCO/RESA to begin working toward her GED. With dedication and the support of comprehensive services—including skills training, dropout prevention, and alternative secondary education—Katie remained committed to her goals. Her perseverance paid off when she proudly earned her GED in October 2025. With renewed confidence, Katie continued to take full advantage of the opportunities available to her. With guidance from her Michigan Works! Youth Career Advisor, Danielle, she completed the FAFSA, explored postsecondary options, and submitted college applications. In November, Katie was accepted to Alpena Community College, marking an exciting milestone toward her postsecondary education and long-term career goals. Katie also strengthened her career readiness skills by completing the six-week Virtual Career and Readiness Exploration program through Young Professionals, earning $1,500 for her participation. In addition, she was selected to attend Leadership Day through the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates program—an honor recognizing her commitment to personal growth and professional development. Throughout her time in the WIOA Youth Program, Katie received a wide range of supportive services, including tutoring and skills training; dropout prevention and recovery support; alternative secondary school services; supportive services; paid and unpaid work experiences; labor market information and career exploration; and postsecondary preparation and transition activities. Katie’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the impact of strong support systems. She is now on a clear path toward college success and a promising career—proving that with the right support, resources and guidance, anything is possible.

When Nicole first came to Michigan Works! PATH Program, she had just moved to the area and was new to the state. Ten weeks pregnant, caring for a toddler, and unsure where to begin her job search, Nicole felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to move forward. Through the PATH Program, Michigan Works! helped Nicole take the first steps toward stability and self-sufficiency. She received job leads, resume assistance, and access to workshops designed to strengthen her applications and interview skills. Her Career Advisor, Niki, checked in weekly to provide encouragement and ensure Nicole stayed on track—support that continued even after Nicole secured employment. “With the help of Michigan Works!, I was able to get back the stable life I once created for my family and secure a job that works well with my schedule and provides great benefits,” Nicole shared. “I highly recommend this program to anyone who feels lost or just needs a little extra help finding a job or continuing their education. Thank you to the people at Michigan Works! for helping me get back on track and create a positive, stable life for my children and me.” In addition to employment support, Michigan Works! assisted Nicole with resume development, securing reliable childcare, mileage assistance for commuting to and from work, and transitional support services tied to key milestones, including completion of AEP and obtaining employment. Nicole was excited to begin her new position as a cashier at Ross Dress for Less in Petoskey. She was also able to find quality daycare for her daughter and start work before the holidays—making it possible to provide a special Christmas for her family. Today, Nicole says she has regained hope and confidence, knowing she is building a stable and positive future for both of her children.