News and Success Stories

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…

Students from the Michigan Works! Southwest Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program were recognized for their outstanding leadership and commitment during Youth Solutions’ statewide Career Development Conference (CDC) held April 30 at Saginaw Valley State University. The annual conference brings together young people from across Michigan to showcase the career readiness and workforce development skills…

Michigan Works! Southwest is proud to recognize Angie O’Bryant as the April 2026 Shining Star Award recipient for her exceptional dedication, compassion, and commitment to serving customers and the community. Throughout April, Angie demonstrated truly outstanding performance in Talent Solutions by consistently providing excellent customer service while maintaining high expectations and meeting customers where they…

When Natalia Diaz-Andrade enrolled in the Michigan Works! Southwest Young Professionals (YP) program in March 2025, she was a student at Lakeview High School with big questions about her future. Living in a low-income household with limited exposure to career opportunities, Natalia was eager to gain work experience but unsure where to begin. With guidance…

Michigan Works! Southwest is proud to recognize Hannah Klein as the March 2026 Shining Star Award recipient for her outstanding dedication, adaptability, and commitment to serving customers. Hannah consistently goes above and beyond, always stepping up when needed to support both her team and the individuals we serve. One of her most impactful contributions has…

Each year, Michigan Works! Agencies recognize individuals and employers whose partnership demonstrates the power of workforce development to transform lives and strengthen communities. This year, Essence and Bronson Healthcare have been selected as the 2026 Michigan Works! Impact Award recipients for the Michigan Works! Southwest service area. The Impact Awards are a statewide celebration recognizing…