Opening doors: A campus, a conference, and a clearer path forward

By Roger Curtis, Executive Director, Youth Solutions

On April 30, something special happened in Saginaw.

For the first time in its 17-year history, Youth Solutions hosted the Career Development Conference (CDC) on a college campus—Saginaw Valley State University. And while the setting was new, the purpose was as clear and powerful as ever: bring together young people from across Michigan and give them a space to demonstrate not just what they’ve learned—but who they’re becoming.

What unfolded that day wasn’t just a conference. It was a glimpse into what’s possible when young people are supported, challenged, and believed in.

Each year, the CDC brings together participants from our Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program. These are young people who are working hard to overcome barriers, define their goals, and build a path toward postsecondary success.

This year, 170 youth and nearly 70 dedicated JMG specialists and managers came together from more than 50 programs across the state. They were joined by volunteers from industries ranging from healthcare and manufacturing to government and human services—each one playing a role in guiding, evaluating, and encouraging our participants.

But what made this year different wasn’t just the scale—it was the setting.

Holding the conference on a college campus gave students something more than a venue. It gave them an experience. For many, it was the first time stepping into an environment that could soon be part of their future. Walking the campus, engaging with professionals, and participating in structured competitions brought their aspirations into sharper focus.

It made the idea of “what’s next” feel real.

Skills that go far beyond the classroom

Throughout the day, students participated in individual and team competitions that tested the skills they’ve been developing all year—interviewing, problem-solving, communication, teamwork.

These aren’t abstract concepts in JMG. They are practiced, refined, and applied in real-world scenarios. At the CDC, that preparation comes to life.

Judges didn’t just evaluate performance—they offered feedback, encouragement, and insight. Every interaction was an opportunity for growth.

This year also kept a new tradition from last year: the Pathways Fair. This addition created a direct bridge between students and employers, giving young people the chance to explore careers, ask questions, and begin envisioning themselves in those roles.

It’s one thing to talk about career pathways. It’s another to stand face-to-face with someone who can help you walk one.

The power of recognition

As the day concluded, we gathered to celebrate excellence—not just in competition, but in character, leadership, and resilience.

Our Youth of the Year and Alumni of the Year represent the very best of what JMG stands for. They remind us that success isn’t defined by a single moment, but by a sustained commitment to growth and perseverance.

Recognitions like these matter. They affirm hard work. They elevate role models. And they show every student in the room that their efforts are seen—and valued.

Why this work matters

At its core, Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: when you pair young people facing challenges with the right support, mentorship, and opportunities, you don’t just change outcomes—you change lives.

We see that impact in our results, including a 99% high school graduation rate among JMG participants. But statistics only tell part of the story. Behind every number is a young person who gained confidence, discovered a passion, or found a path they didn’t know was possible before.

The Career Development Conference brings those stories into focus. It’s where preparation meets opportunity. Where skills turn into confidence. And where potential becomes visible—not just to others, but to the students themselves.

Looking ahead

Events like the CDC don’t happen without strong partnerships. We’re grateful to the State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, DTE Foundation, United Way partners, and so many others who invest in this work.

Because at the end of the day, this isn’t about a single event. It’s about building a future where every young person in Michigan has access to career-connected learning—and graduates with a plan.

The campus may have been new this year. But the impact? That’s something we’ve been building for a long time—and we’re just getting started.

If you’re interested in supporting this work or becoming a partner, I encourage you to connect with us. Together, we can continue opening doors for the next generation.

— Roger Curtis

Executive Director, Youth Solutions