Michigan Works of Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties has been awarded a $2 million grant for workforce training. The money comes from the Michigan Learning and Education Advancement Program within the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth, and it’s intended to respond to the economic impact of COVID-19. Michigan Works says it will work with Lake Michigan College and Southwestern Michigan College to provide short-term education and training opportunities to 670 individuals throughout the tri-county region over the next two years. Career navigators will help the participants set career goals, identify relevant education and training opportunities, and complete requirements for college admissions and financial aid. LMC Dean of Career and Workforce Education Ken Flowers says the grant “will aid in addressing the tremendous gap between industry skill needs and the number of area residents that possess those skills in southwest Michigan.” Anyone who wants to learn more can go to MiWorks.org/MiLEAP.
