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April 30, 2026
The Career Development Conference (CDC) is Youth Solutions’ annual event where youth have the opportunity to showcase the skills they have learned throughout the year in the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program. This event highlights workplace skills and knowledge, such as creative problem solving, interview skills, and career preparation. Career-based competitions provide students real-world practice for future employment opportunities while volunteer judges evaluate and offer feedback to our future leaders. Moreover, inspirational speeches and student recognition allow our young people to envision and aspire towards their future careers.
Volunteers Needed!
Youth Solutions is looking for business professionals to volunteer as Guest Judges at this year's event. Judges will evaluate participants in areas like interview skills, creative problem solving, and career preparation. Get a front-row seat to seeing future leaders in action, network with youth and other professionals, and get inspired by Michigan's next generation! No prior experience is needed; just bring your enthusiasm!
📅 Thursday, April 30, 2026
📍Saginaw Valley State University (7400 Bay Rd, University Center, MI 48710)
⏳9:00 am - 2:30 pm
Volunteer commitment begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 12 p.m. but you are welcome to stay for lunch and the awards ceremony that follows. Breakfast and lunch for volunteers will be provided.
Interested? Register by March 27, 2026 to participate!
Thank you for empowering the next generation of leaders!
See Highlights from 2025!
Congratulations 2025 Youth of the Year
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2025 Notable Alumni of the Year Winner
2025 First Place
JMG Spotlight Video
Congratulations to our 2025 JMG Spotlight winners! Their passion for JMG truly showed through their talent and creativity. Watch the 1st place video submitted by our youth from Wexford-Missaukee Career Tech Center, a program of Networks Northwest.
2025 Competitive Event Winners
Sterling Service Award!
Congratulations Carolyn Miller
and thank you for your service to youth
The Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates Sterling Service Award is presented to a JMG specialist or manager to recognize their unwavering commitment and dedication to the JMG program and the youth within their community. It serves as a testament to their years of service and the profound difference they’ve made in the lives of the youth under their mentorship. We’re proud to recognize Carolyn Miller as the 2025 Sterling Service Award recipient for her more than 10 years of outstanding service to youth in the Pershing High School JMG program.
Carolyn Miller
JMG Specialist
Pershing High School, a program of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation