News and Success Stories

Michigan Works! Southwest is proud to recognize Misti Arndt as the July 2026 Shining Star Award recipient for her dedication to serving customers, willingness to take on new challenges, and commitment to excellence. Since joining Michigan Works! Southwest, Misti has quickly become an asset to the team. She has demonstrated initiative and flexibility by taking…

For S.E.E.D.S. Learning Center in Kalamazoo, investing in employees through Registered Apprenticeship is an investment in both their staff and the children they serve. Through an Employer-Led Collaborative, S.E.E.D.S. supported an employee in earning a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, strengthening her knowledge and skills in early childhood education. The training provided practical strategies for…

A Touch of Home is an early childhood education provider in the Kalamazoo area dedicated to providing high-quality, relationship-centered care and education for children from infancy through preschool. The program focuses on learning through play, whole-child development, family partnerships, and individualized support for families. As a 2023 State Apprenticeship Expansion (SAE) awardee supported by Michigan…

Michigan Works! Southwest recently welcomed local employers and workforce development leaders to its Calhoun County Service Center in Battle Creek for a Race to Talent™ event focused on the benefits and opportunities of Registered Apprenticeship programs. The event gave employers an opportunity to learn how Registered Apprenticeships can help businesses develop skilled talent, strengthen their…

Michigan Works! Southwest is proud to recognize Shannon Yarbrough as the June 2026 Shining Star Award recipient for her exceptional dedication to serving employers, commitment to customer service, and willingness to support her colleagues. As the Going PRO Talent Fund Coordinator on the Business Solutions team, Shannon consistently goes above and beyond to ensure employers…

When Callen enrolled in the Michigan Works! Southwest Young Professionals Plus Program in December 2024, he was eager to begin building his future. Like many young adults preparing to enter the workforce for the first time, he knew he wanted a career and a sense of independence, but he was still figuring out how to…

When Jewvar enrolled in the Michigan Works! Southwest Young Professionals (YP) Program in March 2025, he knew he wanted a successful future, but he wasn’t sure how to get there. Like many young people entering the workforce for the first time, he faced several challenges that made it difficult to take those first steps. He…

Michigan Works! Southwest is proud to recognize Riley as the May 2026 Shining Star Award recipient for her exceptional dedication, flexibility, and commitment to serving both customers and colleagues. Since joining the Kalamazoo/St. Joseph County Welfare Reform team, Riley has quickly established herself as a valuable asset to the organization. Her willingness to step in…

After earning his high school diploma in 2024, Jesse knew he wanted to build a successful future for himself. He had a strong interest in pursuing a career in skilled trades, but like many young adults entering the workforce for the first time, he wasn’t sure where to begin. When Jesse enrolled in the Michigan…

Like many high school students, Malayah had a lot on her plate. Between academics, sports, extracurricular activities, and planning for her future, finding enough time in the day often felt like a challenge. While she wanted to gain work experience and begin preparing for life after high school, she worried about how she could fit…

When Victor enrolled in the Michigan Works! Southwest Young Professionals Plus Program in October 2025, he was focused on finding a part-time job while finishing high school. Like many students preparing for life after graduation, he wanted to earn money, gain work experience, and begin building a future for himself. However, several obstacles made those goals feel difficult to…

When David enrolled in the Michigan Works! Southwest Young Professionals (YP) Program in March 2025, he was looking for guidance on employment and his future education plans. While David had always been eager to learn and willing to challenge himself, he often needed additional time and support to master new skills. Despite facing obstacles throughout…