Jobs for Michigan's Graduates

06/04/2026

🌟 Meet Bethany Byard, our Northeast Michigan Exemplary Youth of the Year from Michigan Works Northeast Consortium Ga***rd Service Center! 🌟

Despite facing challenges including housing instability, transportation barriers, and balancing work, school, and independent living, Bethany has remained determined to build a brighter future. Through Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG), she earned her high school diploma, developed leadership skills through community service and leadership opportunities, and discovered a passion for entrepreneurship through glass blowing.

Today, Bethany is pursuing post-secondary training while maintaining full-time employment and inspiring others by sharing her story and encouraging youth to get involved. Her journey from a shy, reserved student to a confident self-advocate is a testament to her resilience and perseverance.

Congratulations, Bethany, on being recognized as the 2026 Northeast Michigan Exemplary Youth of the Year! 🎉

Read Bethany's full story to learn more: https://bit.ly/4fVmFes

06/02/2026

🌟 Meet Our June Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) Specialist of the Month: Carrie Blanchard! 🌟

We’re proud to recognize Carrie Blanchard, a JMG specialist with Genesee Intermediate School District, a program of GST Michigan Works, for her creativity, compassion, and dedication to helping students build confidence and discover their potential.

Since joining the JMG network in 2023, Carrie has created supportive environments where young people feel encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, develop essential career readiness skills, and find a true sense of belonging. She is passionate about helping students recognize their strengths and celebrate accomplishments—both big and small.

Whether she’s guiding students through work-based learning experiences, cheering them on at the Career Development Conference, or helping them build meaningful connections with their peers, Carrie is committed to empowering youth to believe in themselves and pursue new opportunities.

Through her encouragement and student-centered approach, Carrie continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of Michigan’s youth.

👉 Read Carrie’s full story and learn more about the difference she’s making: https://bit.ly/4dTxP0B

06/01/2026

Congratulations to all of our JMG graduates from Quest High School North Branch, MI! 💙

06/01/2026

🎓 Graduation season is here! 🎓

Our Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) program at Durant High School recently celebrated its graduating seniors with a special Senior Send-Off following graduation practice.

Students received their JMG graduation cords before enjoying a well-deserved cookout, cake, and ice cream alongside school staff and community partners from Oakland Community College, Oakland County Michigan Works!, and .

Throughout the year, JMG provides students with the support, guidance, and opportunities they need to overcome barriers, build confidence, and prepare for life after high school. This celebration was a meaningful way to recognize the hard work, growth, and accomplishments of these outstanding seniors as they take their next steps.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026—we can't wait to see all that you achieve! 🌟

👉 Want to learn more about how JMG is helping young people across Michigan build bright futures? Visit: https://bit.ly/3B6FC72

06/01/2026

Congratulations, Ashlyn! 💙

Join us in celebrating Ashlyn Bearinger for being recognized with the 2026 Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) Excellence in Youth Leadership Award at the statewide Career Development Conference held at Saginaw Valley State University! 🎉

Ashlyn was honored for her dedication to personal growth, leadership, and commitment to the JMG program. Through her hard work, determination, and focus on achieving her educational and career goals, she continues to set a positive example for her peers and future leaders across our region.

We are proud to celebrate Ashlyn’s accomplishments and the positive impact she is making in her school, community, and future career journey. Congratulations, Ashlyn! 👏

05/29/2026

🌟 Meet Aspen Evans, our Northwest Michigan Exemplary Youth of the Year from Central Lake High School, a program through Networks Northwest! 🌟

Despite facing significant challenges growing up, Aspen has remained resilient, determined, and committed to making a positive impact in her community. Balancing four sports, dual enrollment courses, National Honor Society (NHS) responsibilities, and part-time work, Aspen embraced every opportunity Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) provided while discovering her passion for photography, media, and marketing.

This fall, Aspen plans to attend Northern Michigan University, where she hopes to continue running track while pursuing her goals in photography and marketing. We are so proud of all she has accomplished and excited for what’s ahead!

Congratulations, Aspen, on being recognized as the 2026 Northwest Michigan Exemplary Youth of the Year! 🎉

Read Aspen’s full story to learn more: https://bit.ly/4x1YSje


Northwest Michigan Works

05/27/2026

🏆 The 2026 Career Development Conference (CDC) was packed with energy, connection, and unforgettable moments.

Youth, specialists, alumni, and partners from across Michigan came together to celebrate achievement, build connections, and showcase the leadership and talent that makes Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) so impactful. From inspiring award recognitions to the high-energy JMG Bowl championship, this year’s conference was filled with moments we won’t forget. 🏆

A special thank you to Saginaw Valley State University for hosting us and helping make this incredible event possible, and to Percivierre Whitmore, Community Engagement Specialist with Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Office, for joining us and delivering a meaningful welcome address.

Take a look back at some of the highlights from this year’s CDC! 🎥

Read the full article and meet all of our 2026 CDC award winners: https://bit.ly/4nQHDxb



Covenant HealthCare
Hemlock Semiconductor
MI Hospital Careers

05/26/2026

🌟 Meet Michael Holland, our Upper Peninsula Exemplary Youth of the Year from Horizons Alternative High School, a program through Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! 🌟

While balancing school, financial responsibilities, work, and personal challenges, Michael never gave up on his future. With support from Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) and his specialist, Debbie Bean, he refocused on his goals, graduated on time, and began building a successful career in manufacturing at Calumet Electronics.

Today, Michael is thriving in a high-demand field, continuing to grow professionally while working toward greater independence and supporting his family. We are so proud of all he has accomplished and excited for what’s ahead!

Congratulations, Michael, on being recognized as the 2026 Upper Peninsula Exemplary Youth of the Year! 🎉

Read Michael’s full story to learn more: https://bit.ly/4vfRUpc

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. ❤️ 💙

In observance of the holiday, our office is closed today. We wish everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day.