Preparing Michigan’s Future Workforce: Collaboration, Innovation, and Youth Success at the 2025 Michigan Works! Conference

From September 7–9, Youth Solutions joined workforce leaders, educators, employers, and policymakers from across the state at the Michigan Works! 2025 Annual Conference, where members of the Youth Solutions team and partners from the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) network presented sessions on mentorship, funding, and building Michigan’s talent pipeline. The annual conference served as a powerful gathering focused on navigating change, strengthening partnerships, and preparing Michigan’s workforce for the future.

This July, we were proud to honor the Michigan Works! Association (MWA) with the JMG Impact Award for their unwavering collaboration and leadership in expanding equitable opportunities for youth across the state. From championing career development since JMG’s inception to supporting innovative programs that uplift and empower young people, MWA has been a cornerstone in building brighter futures for Michigan’s youth.

Conference Highlights

One conference highlight was the panel discussion Diversifying Funding: Ideas for Stability in the Midst of Constant Change, featuring insights from Roger Curtis, Executive Director of Youth Solutions, alongside leaders Janie McNabb (Networks Northwest) and Eric Stewart (Kalamazoo RESA). Together, they explored how organizations can diversify funding sources to remain sustainable. Panelists shared creative solutions ranging from new service categories to shared staffing models, offering attendees actionable ideas for long-term stability.

Another standout session was Talent By Design: Harnessing Apprenticeship to Connect Secondary CTE and Industry, co-presented by Youth Solutions Board Member Jenny Geno, whose leadership highlighted how apprenticeship models can bridge the gap between Career and Technical Education (CTE) and industry. Jenny highlighted her work piloting this approach at Hemlock Semiconductor, demonstrating how high-demand and niche fields can benefit from hands-on training, public-private partnerships, and tailored curriculum design. Attendees left with actionable insights for engaging industry leaders, designing effective apprenticeships, and addressing skill gaps in emerging sectors—ensuring CTE remains modern, relevant, and impactful for Michigan’s future workforce.

Youth Solutions-Led Sessions

• Mentorship That Matters: Engaging Employers in Youth Career Development

  Youth Solutions Presenters Summer Tahaney, Daniel Mathenia, and Emma Haygood highlighted practical ways to incorporate mentorship into career development activities for youth. The session emphasized strategies for designing impactful mentorship experiences, strengthening employer partnerships, and setting students up for long-term success. Attendees also received a handbook of tools and templates to apply in their own communities.

• Building Michigan’s Talent Pipeline: Career-Focused Education in Action

  Youth Solutions Executive Director, Roger Curtis, shared how career-focused education is a long-term solution to Michigan’s talent shortage. He outlined how programs such as JMG connect youth with employers to create meaningful pathways to careers. Sponsored by Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren, the session showcased how innovative approaches can close the gap between education and workforce.

Celebrating JMG Program Partners

Beyond Youth Solutions staff, JMG leaders and specialists across Michigan showcased their expertise, highlighting the program’s reach and the lasting difference it makes for youth. Their knowledge, innovative practices, and on-the-ground experiences enriched the conference and underscored the powerful role our partners play in shaping Michigan’s future workforce. Presenters included:

• Jessica Lundy, JMG Specialist from Michigan Works! West Central Osceola County Service Center

• Kristyn Nichelson, JMG Program Administrator from Michigan Works! Southeast

• Chad Patton, Director of Development and Innovation from West Michigan Works!

• Sunshine Plato, Program Administrator from Michigan Works! Southeast

• Mya Shultz, JMG specialist from Michigan Works! Southwest Calhoun County Service Center

• Misty Shulters, Deputy Director from Michigan Works! Southeast

• Diana Salazar, JMG Specialist from Michigan Works! West Central Oceana County Service Center

• Ashley Vandenbusche, JMG Manager from Michigan Works! Southeast

• Angela VanSyckle, JMG Specialist from Michigan Works! West Central Newaygo County Service Center

Moving Forward Together

The Michigan Works! 2025 Annual Conference highlighted the vital role collaboration among schools, employers, and community partners plays in workforce development. With challenges such as shifting labor markets, the rise of AI, and funding uncertainties, innovative solutions and strong partnerships are more important than ever. 

“Youth Solutions is committed to equipping Michigan’s youth with the skills, support, and opportunities they need to thrive,” said Roger Curtis. “Events like this bring together the right voices to ensure our future workforce is ready for success.”

This message is especially timely during Workforce Development Month. Sustaining funding for programs like Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates ensures that Michigan’s young people stay connected, supported, and prepared for meaningful careers.

Join us in raising your voice to protect youth career development opportunities. Contact your legislators today to show your support for JMG.