Metro Detroit talent development and employment successes were among those celebrated by state leaders at the Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards.

Lansing, Mich. – Local lawmakers and statewide talent development officials gathered virtually, and in-person, to recognize Canton resident Taylor Box, Dearborn Heights' The Armored Group, as well as SEMCA Michigan Works! for offering on-the-job training opportunities for in-demand jobs and helping to develop a talent pipeline.

A Strong Partnership is Forged In the winter of 2017, Justin Skibin, SEMCA Michigan Works! Business Services Professional, sent an email to The Armored Group's Megan Davis regarding some potential hiring assistance after noting its job openings online.

The company responded to Skibin's email right away, contacting him regarding the job openings the company had available and the Business Services available to them, including the On-the-Job Training (OJT) option for its new hires. As a result, the company has participated in six OJT contracts with SEMCA including the most recent contract for Taylor Box.

The Armored Group has also contacted SEMCA regularly regarding conveying new job openings and events the company offers. The company has also specified interest in participating in Registered Apprenticeship Programs, Going PRO Talent Fund, and joining virtual job fairs in the future. The relationship with The Armored Group has been great for many reasons and is only aiming to get stronger.

A Great Career Opportunity

"The assistance Taylor received from SEMCA Michigan Works! helped her overcome barriers to find a great career opportunity," said Sen. Betty Jean Alexander (D-Detroit). "On-the-Job Training is a great tool to provide individuals with the opportunity to prove themselves and earn a full-time career position."

The Impact Awards hosted by Michigan Works! Association recognizes the economic development success being achieved in communities across Michigan. During the event, local lawmakers present tributes to dozens of honorees from across the state.

"The dedication that SEMCA has to ensure our region's residents get the services and assistance they need is integral to making our community successful," said Rep. Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park). "Taylor's success story is just one of many that happen everyday thanks to Michigan Works!. Congratulations to everyone receiving this prestigious award!"

"Congratulations to Taylor on winning this great award," said Sen. Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia). "Her wonderful experience with the On-the-Job training she participated in at The Armored Group serves as a great example to other job seekers of the opportunities available in our great state."

The Michigan Works! Association is a non-profit membership organization that provides services and support to Michigan's talent eco-system. For over 30 years, the Association has been the go-to resource for federal, state, and local workforce initiatives.

"Kudos to SEMCA Michigan Works! for reaching out to The Armored Group to proactively assist them with their hiring needs," said Rep. Rajeev Puri (D-Canton). "The services Michigan Works! offers to both employers and job seekers is key to continuing to develop the talent pipeline in our state."

The Association's work ensures top-quality services and support for Michigan's talent pipeline. For more information, please visit michiganworks.org.