On Tuesday, Nov. 19, the Michigan Apprentice Network held its quarterly meeting, focusing on celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, which took place from Nov. 17 to 23. Participants heard from Susan Corbin, Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, and Sen. Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.). They also heard a panel discussion about how professional apprenticeships can be used as an innovative and equitable strategy to enhance the state’s talent development outcomes. The panel featured:
- Chelsea Hurst, Information Systems, Associate Talent Manager, Dow
- Maher Harhara, Information Technology, Business Analyst, Dow
- Lisa Beard, Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning Consultant, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation
- Valerie Robinson, Regional Director, Business Development, APPRENTI
- Lisa Savage, Principal Technical Lead, SOTIF and Safety of AI/ML, Systems, Product, and Vehicle Architecture, Aptiv
The Michigan Apprentice Network encourages collaboration among local organizations to enhance the professional apprenticeship movement. By raising awareness and sharing best practices, the network aims to broaden recruitment efforts and ensure equitable career opportunities within the community. Its goal is to establish 500 professional apprenticeships in the first five years.
Employers are invited to join the network at any stage in their professional apprenticeship journey, whether they are considering starting a program or already have a well-established one. Those interested in joining should contact Christi Taylor, Senior Director of Talent Initiatives at the Chamber, at ctaylor@detroitchamber.com.