Meet Our February Specialist of the Month: Chad Behl

This month, we’re excited to recognize Chad Behl, a dedicated Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) specialist from Waverly High School, Capital Area Michigan Works! Peckham. Chad brings more than 15 years of experience in social work and workforce development and will celebrate two years as a JMG specialist this April. He is driven by a deep passion for helping young people see beyond their circumstances and realize their full potential.

Before joining JMG, Chad built a diverse career rooted in social work and workforce development. He began his career in 2008 and has since worked with individuals with disabilities, families receiving food assistance, and job seekers across Eaton, Ingham, and Clinton counties. One of his most impactful roles was building and running a program for returning citizens—individuals on parole or probation—in the Tri-County area, a position he held for five years.

While that work was meaningful, Chad saw how difficult it can be to support adults once challenges like addiction and instability are deeply ingrained. That experience led him to JMG, where he hoped to reach young people earlier. 

Chad was inspired to become a JMG specialist after seeing the program in action. While working in workforce development, he observed JMG youth participating in talent tours and career exploration activities—particularly students who were shy, socially awkward, or facing barriers. “I loved those kids,” Chad said. “I wanted to help them come out of their shell and realize there are no limits.”

What motivates Chad most is watching youth grow over time. He finds joy in seeing a quiet student become a leader or helping a young person achieve milestones they once thought were out of reach—such as earning a driver’s license, getting their first job, or graduating high school. “Knowing I’ll be part of that moment for the rest of their life means everything,” he shared.

One of Chad’s most meaningful memories as a specialist involves a student who was in an extremely difficult place, facing housing instability and questioning his future. Today, that student has graduated high school, secured employment, and is living independently. “Seeing where he’s at now—it’s incredible,” Chad said. “That diploma was the biggest thing in his life.”

Chad believes one of the biggest challenges facing youth today is a lack of optimism about the future, influenced by social media, economic uncertainty, and limited exposure to career options. Through JMG, he focuses on being present and helping students expand their view of what’s possible by exposing them to a wide range of career and training opportunities.

One of the greatest joys of Chad’s work is supporting students who may lack confidence or motivation. “I always pick the tougher ones,” he admitted. “That’s where the real impact is.”

Outside of work, Chad is a devoted family man. He’s a proud dad to his six-month-old daughter, Mara, and his son, Silas. He also shares his home with a dog named Greg and two cats, Norman and Ethel. Chad loves music, plays drums and guitar for fun, and enjoys spending time with his family whenever he’s not supporting students.

Congratulations, Chad, on being named our February Specialist of the Month! Thank you for your compassion, honesty, and commitment to helping Michigan’s youth see what’s possible and take confident steps toward their futures.

Nominations are open to ALL, including our employer partners! If you know a phenomenal specialist, we encourage you to [nominate them here] for our March Specialist of the Month.