Amplifying Impact: #TeamJMG Takeaways from the 2025 JAG National Training Seminar

From July 14–18, 2025, members of our Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) network joined hundreds of specialists, managers, and leaders from across the country in Louisville, Kentucky, for the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) National Training Seminar (NTS). As JAG’s premier career development event, this year’s NTS carried the theme Amplify the Advantage—a powerful rallying call to grow, lead, and transform more lives by investing in our own readiness to serve youth.

Representing Michigan, Youth Solutions team members Sonya Blanzy and Meagan Staton attended alongside partners from Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, Peckham, Inc., and Capital Area Michigan Works!, contributing to an energizing week of learning, networking, and celebrating the frontline leaders shaping brighter futures for young people across the nation.

From practical tools to powerful connections, here’s what some of our network had to say:

"We’re all in this together."

Carolyn Miller, JMG specialist from Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, reflected on the power of connection during the conference:

"Attending the National Training Seminar was an incredible experience. Connecting with specialists from across the country reminded me that we’re all in this together—facing similar challenges and celebrating victories."

Carolyn also shared that one of her top takeaways was the Empowered Hub session, which introduced new lesson plans she’s excited to implement this fall.

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Understanding and Empowering Gen Z

Elizabeth Curry, JMG specialist from Capital Area Michigan Works!, left NTS with a deeper understanding of the generation we serve:

“NTS gave me powerful tools to better understand Gen Z—what drives them, what they value, and how we can empower them to succeed in today’s workforce.”

She’s especially eager to bring these insights into conversations with employers to help them better recognize the unique strengths Gen Z brings to the workplace.

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Innovation Rooted in Relationships

Lester Gayden, JMG manager at Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, was inspired by the innovative spirit of JAG—and its unwavering commitment to people:

“What stood out most was the human-centered approach—the value of relationships at every level—and the bold mission to serve one million young people.”

He highlighted sessions on AI and partnerships as standouts, along with JAG’s intentional push toward inclusive innovation.

“Their energy to evolve while staying connected to the field is something I’m excited to bring back to our team.”

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Telling the JAG Story

Reginald Williams, JMG specialist from Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, emphasized the importance of storytelling in advocacy:

“I walked away from NTS understanding just how important it is to tell the JMG story. Advocating for our students—and securing the funding they deserve—starts with making our impact known.”

From data to lived experiences, Reginald plans to sharpen how we communicate our success to stakeholders across the board.

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Celebrating National Recognition

At this year’s NTS, Michigan was honored to receive JAG’s highest honor—the National “6-of-6” Award—for all three program models: Multi-Year, Alternative Education, and Out-of-School. This prestigious award recognizes programs that meet or exceed all six of JAG’s rigorous performance metrics, demonstrating our statewide excellence in preparing youth for success beyond graduation.

We were also proud to celebrate several outstanding individuals and partners whose contributions continue to elevate the JMG program statewide:

High Performer Awards

Each year, JAG recognizes individuals or organizations that have made a significant and lasting impact on a JAG affiliate. Youth Solutions selected partners whose contributions go beyond the program level to strengthen JMG across the state:

• Tracy Tanner, Peckham Inc./Capital Area Michigan Works!

• Daynan Brown, Peckham Inc./Capital Area Michigan Works!

• Michigan Works! Association

JAG Outstanding Specialists of the Year

These awards honor specialists who consistently deliver high-quality programs and embody JMG’s mission in their everyday work. Nominated by their managers and peers, this year’s awardees include:

• Josh Todd, Networks Northwest

• Trena Williams, Winston, West Michigan Works!

• Heather Bates, West Michigan Works!

Outstanding Manager of the Year

Recognizing a leader who inspires, supports, and empowers their team to help Michigan’s youth thrive. This year’s honoree is:

• Ashley Udell, Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium

These national recognitions highlight the passion, leadership, and impact of #TeamJMG. We’re proud to celebrate the changemakers who make a lasting difference in the lives of young people across Michigan.

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The Learning Continues

With new strategies, deeper understanding, and a commitment to serving even more young people, we’re ready to carry the mission forward in Michigan. This momentum carried us into the 2025 Youth Solutions Summer Summit, July 30–August 1, where our JMG network united to deepen connections, share best practices, and keep growing—driven by a shared purpose.