A Year of Progress and Promise

It is a humbling honor to reflect on another year of purpose and progress when I consider the incredible people, places and opportunities that make the Michigan Works! Southeast region so dynamic.

When MWSE was formed in 2015, the idea of uniting five distinct counties was a daunting initiative, but it was a noble challenge that promised to reap untold rewards if undertaken correctly. Thanks to the dedication of our team and the thousands of lives we’ve positively impacted, we’ve grown into a strong, resilient and creative force. Each person in our organization understands the importance of their role, whether it’s helping a business find the right talent or guiding a career seeker toward a life-changing employment opportunity. We’ve become a connected team, and I couldn’t be more overjoyed by what we’ve accomplished together.

Making a Difference

Our work spans a wide network of partners, including our Consortium and Workforce Development boards and our dedicated MWSE team. Yet, our most profound endeavor is to the people we serve: the adult learners, businesses and career seekers — 
what we refer to as the ABCs of community and economic development.  

This past year, we helped people increase the average wage of individuals who seek our services from $20 to $24 an hour. That $4 difference isn’t just a number — it represents a powerful shift. It means more money flowing into local economies, stronger families and a more prosperous Michigan. Tens of thousands of individuals and families are now better off because of their engagement with MWSE, and thousands of businesses are thriving and contributing to the vitality of our region.  

Charting the Future

Serving as your executive director for the past five years has been a true honor. This work is deeply personal to me. I’ve seen firsthand how a new skill or a steady paycheck can restore dignity and transform a life. The power of employment and education is truly life-changing, not just for individuals but for entire communities.  

As we look ahead, I’m energized by the possibilities. With rapid advances in technology and innovation, we have a unique opportunity to strengthen our partnerships with businesses and community organizations. I am ready to support and cultivate these connections, ensuring that every person in our region has the resources and support they need to fulfill our mission and create connections to a better future.