Chris Holman welcomes Troy Baker, VP of Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion, Better Business Bureau® of Michigan, Southfield, MI.

Talk briefly about the merging of the BBBs of Eastern and Western Michigan?

What inspired the creation of the BBB Trades Scholarship, and how does it align with BBB’s broader mission?

Can you walk us through the eligibility criteria and application process for this year’s scholarship?

How does the scholarship benefit both young workers and the BBB Accredited Businesses that employ them?

What impact have you seen from last year’s scholarship awards, and can you share any success stories?

Why is investing in skilled trades so critical to Michigan’s economy and workforce development right now?

Troy Baker, is the person who created this scholarship he stepped up for this interview since it's something he has worked on from inception.

Invest in Your Future — BBB® Trades Scholarship Now Accepting Applications

MICHIGAN (May 2025) - The Better Business Bureau® of Michigan’s Educational Foundation is now accepting applications for the first round of the 2025 BBB Trades Scholarship. BBB wants to support young adults who choose to start a career in the trades. The scholarship seeks to help ease some of the costs associated with trades jobs, such as tools, protective clothing, etc.

The scholarship also supports BBB Accredited Businesses, giving them another tool to help recruit, train and retain their workers of the future.

In 2024, BBB was able to award 9 young adults with $7,800 worth of tools and gear.

2025 BBB Trades Scholarship Winners

The scholarship is available to people 20 years old or younger. They must be working at, or have accepted employment with, a BBB Accredited Business in the trades for 12 months or less (hired after April 2024).

Employees must be working for a business located within the Better Business Bureau of Michigan's 80 County Service Area.

Eligible Trades:

Construction Trades (including plumbing, electrical, roofing, concrete etc.)

Welding

Landscaping

Painting

Heating and Cooling

Auto Repair

Machinery/Tool & Die

Pest Control

Tree Removal

*Other trades will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Submitting an application does not guarantee approval.

Applications will be accepted from May 1 - June 9, 2025.

More details on eligibility and how to apply are available at bbb.org/miawards.

Hear from past winners on how this scholarship has helped them get ahead in their industries here.

2025 BBB Trades Scholarship Sponsors

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Originally uploaded July 30th, reloaded May 14th.

Chris Holman welcomes Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director for LEO - Labor & Economic Opportunity - Michigan, East Lansing.

There were several things Chris wanted to find out from Jonathan in this conversation:

Can you provide an overview of the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office and the primary goals of the office?

How are state and West Michigan leaders collaborating to create a strategy for Michiganders and businesses to benefit from clean energy jobs?

How will this new office contribute to Michigan’s economy and the creation of good paying, middle-class jobs?

What are some of the biggest challenges and opportunities in this transition to clean energy?

How is the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office engaging with local communities and stakeholders to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed?

What role will educational, and training programs play in preparing Michigan’s workforce for the demands of clean energy and high-tech EV manufacturing?

What future initiatives or programs can we expect from the Community & Worker Economic Transition Office as Michigan continues its transition to a clean energy economy?

Additionally LEO shared information with this release

LEO Hosts Roundtable with Kalamazoo Leaders to Discuss Opportunities to Support Clean Energy Transitions, FY25Budget Investments

Stakeholders Gather to Highlight how Community & Worker Economic Transition Office Budget Investments will Support Efforts to EnsureMichiganders Benefit from Clean Energy Transitions

KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Following the passage of a historic budget agreement that provides funding for the newly created Community & Worker Economic Transition Office,the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) convened a roundtable in Kalamazoo today to discuss how the new office will help Michiganders benefit from transitions in the auto and energy sectors.

Today’s event highlighted investments included in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget that bolster the office’s efforts that help companies and individuals take full advantage of the good-paying, middle-class jobs coming to Michigan. These investments include $2.5 million to support staff and operations for the historic new office, which is one of the first of its kind in the country, and $8.6 million for a Community & Worker Economic Transition Pilot Fund that will be used to develop critical resources to help impacted communities and workers prepare for economic transitions in the years ahead, and pilot innovative programs in future years to fill gaps in services available to communities, workers and businesses navigating clean energy transitions.

“We’re thankful for the leadership of the governor and state legislature in providing funding for the Economic Transition Office and for their commitment to ensuring an equitable and just clean energy transition for Michiganders across the state,” said Jonathan Smith, senior chief deputy director of LEO. “Our continued collaboration with partners and stakeholders will remain critical as we work to best leverage these investments and make certain that resources are utilized to adequately address the needs of those impacted by the economic shifts happening in Michigan.”

The roundtable is the 10th in a series of community events held by the Economic Transition Office this year and echoed summaries included in the recently published Community & Worker Economic Transition Office Roundtable Summary Report, which documents key insights, feedback and suggestions gathered during eight previous roundtables held in other regions across the state.

For more information on LEO's initiatives and the Michigan Community & Worker Economic Transition Office, visit Michigan.gov/EconomicTransition.

###

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Originally uploaded July 12, re-edited May 12.

Chris Holman welcomes back Eric A Schertzing, Consultant, Michigan Land Bank Association, who is joined for this conversation by Michelle Thompson, New Executive Director, Michigan Land Bank Association.

So Michelle, you were added new in March what was your background before this?

Michelle, I understand you have a great story to tell from Benzie County and the Land Bank laying the foundation for 22 housing units?

(Business needs employees, and employees need housing!)

Eric you've been working for years on these issues in Ingham County bring us up to speed - something about Condo Developments?

Can either of you share about Private and public housing projects that are being enabled by Land Banks around the State?

Michelle has a great story to tell from Benzie County and the Land Bank laying the foundation for 22 housing units. Business needs employees, and employees need housing!

Eric's perspective are the years of work to have housing ready parcels in a community. Ingham Land Bank is doing two small condo developments in transit rich locations that were acquired blighted homes a dozen years ago, removing them and waiting for the time and funding to act,

Private and public housing projects are being enabled by Land Banks around the State.

MLBA shared a release at the time of her announcement:

Michigan Land Bank Association Welcomes Executive Director to Lead Statewide Efforts

The Michigan Land Bank Association (MLBA) announced the hiring of its Executive Director, Michelle Thompson. Thompson brings with her a wealth of experience, having retired March 1st from her position as Benzie County Treasurer, a role she dedicated herself to for 27 years. Notably, in 2012 she led the establishment of the Benzie County Land Bank Authority and served as its chairperson until her retirement.

“I am thrilled to welcome Michelle as our new executive director. Her unparalleled dedication to the principles of land banking, coupled with her proven track record of transformative leadership in Benzie County, make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said MLBA Chair Tim Burgess. “Her expertise and commitment will be crucial as we continue our mission to strengthen communities across the state.”

Michigan land banks have returned tens of thousands of residential, commercial and industrial properties to productive use, expanding housing opportunities across the state, with demonstrated positive impacts on public health, safety and economic stability. In 2018 the Michigan Association of Land Banks (MALB) commissioned a report assessing land banking activity in Michigan. over the first 12 years of land banking.

Numerous studies have documented how Michigan land bank interventions have increased property values, reduced the number of future tax reverted properties, created jobs, lowered crime and had other critical economic and community impacts.

“I am deeply honored to embark on this journey as the Executive Director of the MLBA,” said Thompson. “Having dedicated over a decade to the transformative power of land banking at the local level, I’m eager to leverage that experience to champion the vital work of land banks statewide. Together with the MLBA, I am deeply committed to advancing equitable and sustainable community development initiatives that uplift every corner of our state.”

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Originally uploaded March 6th, reloaded May 3rd.

Chris Holman welcomes back Nick Chaffin, Program Compliance Officer, CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties.

THEME: Capital Area Michigan Works! reviews the Rapid Response program and its role in supporting employers and employees through a layoff.

Question: What is the Rapid Response program and how does it support businesses facing layoffs or closures?

The Rapid Response Program aims to respond to downsizing and closures that impact our region’s workforce, enabling those affected to return to work as soon as possible.

The program's benefits are two-fold: supporting employees impacted by job loss and benefiting businesses as they navigate business changes.

We know that layoffs are a difficult decision for employers to make. By working with our Rapid Response Team, employers can implement strategies before a layoff to prevent downsizing or ensure their employees are supported and connected to other available employment opportunities if a layoff is truly needed.

Additional employer benefits include:

Minimizing disruption during workforce transitions.

Implementing cost-friendly aversion strategies that reduce turnover and recruitment costs.

Connections to financial aid, training and incentives.

The program helps employees who experience layoffs find new positions that match their skill sets. Employees may also receive early intervention to help them make informed decisions concerning their future and employment services including training and income support.

Through the combined efforts of local workforce boards, economic development organizations and other stakeholders, Rapid Response helps communities address the broader economic impact of significant layoffs or closures, supports efforts to revitalize local economies and helps employees find opportunities to reenter the workforce quickly.

Question: What steps does the Rapid Response program take to support impacted employees?

If layoffs are unavoidable, a worker orientation meeting will be organized, where the CAMW! team will meet with affected employees and connect them with information and support in finding a new job.

Rapid Response meetings with the workforce are designed to help the employees file for Unemployment Insurance and get established with their local Michigan Works! Agencies. Some of the resources provided in meetings include:

Basic assessment, job development, advanced screened referrals, group activities and job search support. Comprehensive personalized assessments, counseling, case management, literacy activities, out-of-area job search and relocation assistance.

Training opportunities like on-the-job training, workplace training with instruction, registered apprenticeships, skill upgrading & retraining so workers can perform transitional jobs.

CAMW! staff will also provide information on the WIOA Dislocated Workers program, an initiative designed to help workers get back to work as quickly as possible after losing their jobs due to layoffs, plant closures or other economic factors.

Question: Why is it important that businesses employ the Rapid Response program when facing potential layoffs, and what are some additional benefits the program offers that employers may not know about?

Question: Where can people go to learn more about the Rapid Response program?

To learn more about the Rapid Response program or connect with CAMW’s business services team, contact Tekea Norwood, Chief Operating Officer, at (517) 492-5541, or Nick Chaffin, Program Compliance Officer, at (517) 492- 5524

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Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Teri Sand, SHRM-CP, PHR, CBSP, CRP, Business Services Manager, Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton, and Clinton Counties

Theme: Teri talks about the fourth annual DHHS Job Fair, which took place the previous day, and previews the upcoming Juneteenth Job Fair.

Question 1: Yesterday was the fourth annual MDHHS Spring Job Fair. Can you tell us about this event, how many employers and job-seekers attended, and how it’s changed over the years?

The annual DHHS job fair is quickly becoming one of the signature events on the Capital Area’s workforce development calendar.

MDHHS partnered with Capital Area Michigan Works!; Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton & Clinton Counties; and the Lansing Police Department for this year’s event.

It started in the parking lot of the Ingham County Health Department in 2022, coming out of the pandemic, and featured 20 or so employers, including local government agencies.

This year, we had more than 40 employers and [[approximate number of job-seekers]] at the event.

The event took place at the Gannon Building on Lansing Community College’s main campus to accommodate the number of employers and potential employees.

Practically every job sector and industry was represented — public and private, large corporations and small businesses.

Question 2: Nowadays, so much of the job search process is digital. Someone looking for work can fill out dozens of applications from the comfort of home, and employers can use screening tools — including A.I. — to zero in on the highest quality candidates. What’s the advantage of attending in-person job fairs like these, both for the employer and the worker?

First of all, we need to remember that although technology like internet access and smartphones seem ubiquitous, not every job-seeker has access to them.

That’s why, in addition to helping people fill out digital applications at our American Job Centers, we also teach digital literacy to help people who need to upskill be able to find more job opportunities online.

Second, Capital Area Michigan Works! is proud to invite employers who are offering full-time, permanent jobs paying $15 an hour or more.

That means the employers have quality jobs to offer.

It’s our mission to not only help residents of the tri-county area find work, but find good jobs with self-sustaining wages.

These employers are also open to hiring from the Capital region’s substantial New American population, giving those with limited English proficiency a chance to fully participate in the local economy.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, what’s missing from filling out a form on a website and interviewing over Zoom is the human connection between employers and applicants.

If employers only look for keywords on resumes and cover letters, they might miss the crucial soft skills that potential employees have to offer.

A cover letter and resume emailed to a hiring manager might not convey the passion, drive and integrity that a job-seeker brings to the table.

And I think that really speaks to the core of what we do: bridging the gap between employer and employee, creating a human connection that leads to long-term success for both sides.

Question 3: For employers or workers who were unaware of this event, do you have any similar opportunities coming up? Where can people find more information?

Next month, the Job and Community Resource Fair sponsored by Juneteenth/NAACP Lansing Branch and Capital Area Michigan Works! will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, at St. Joe Park on Hillsdale Street in Lansing.

Chris Holman welcomes back Lorri Rishar, MBA, Owner & CEO, EDGE Partnerships, Lansing, Marquette, Chicago.

Welcome back Lorri, remind the Michigan business community about EDGE?

We celebrated with you at the Michigan Celebrates Small Business gala last week, tell us about your award? {A Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year}.

Was this your first MCSB Gala? No, previously won A Michigan 50 Companies to Watch Award.

What does it mean to be named among the ten Woman-Owned Small Businesses of the Year?

Does this inspire you and your team going forward?

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MCSB: Woman-Owned Small Businesses of the Year

8THIRTYFOUR Integrated Communications – Grand Rapids

The Aroma Labs – Kalamazoo

Bundled – West Bloomfield

Capital Steel & Wire – DeWitt

Concetti – Detroit

Edge Partnerships, LLC – Lansing

InVerve Marketing, Inc. – Lansing

SPACE, Inc. – Midland

Symplicity Communications, Inc. – Grand Rapids

Tata’s Day Care, LLC – Grand Rapids

Originally uploaded April 15, reloaded April 28th.

Chris Holman welcomes back Anthony Dalimonte, Associate, Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC, Southfield, MI, one of Foster Swift's 6 branches across Michigan.

Chris and Tony's Topic for this conversation: N.I.L.

What is the NCAA House settlement and why is it such a big deal for college athletics?

What is the status of the House case? Has the settlement been approved? Do you think it will be approved?

What does this mean for athletes in non-revenue sports?

What does this mean for name, image, and likeness agreements (NIL) going forward?

Wrap – plug Foster Swift Sports Law group – representing athletes and organizations to navigate NIL deals.

As a four-year member of the University of Michigan football team, Tony brings to the growing world of complex NIL business issues personal knowledge, a unique perspective, and a work ethic honed as a team member. Tony was instrumental in forming the firm's NIL Law Team to counsel student-athletes, businesses/organizations and other interested parties in creating high-value NIL initiatives and contractual arrangements which are fully compliant with NCAA rules, state laws and university regulations.

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Originally uploaded January 29, reloaded April 26th.

Chris Holman welcomes Dave Lee, President & CEO, BRD Printing, Lansing, MI.

Welcome Dave, share your company's history/story?

What were the highlights for 2024?

What do you expect for 2025?

Can you share more about one of your service lines or new machines?

How does BRD handle the talent issue?

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Originally uploaded April 11th, reloaded April 25th.

Chris Holman welcomes Jeran Culina, Manager, Business Leaders United at National Skills Coalition, Middleville, MI.

Welcome Jeran, tell us about Business Leaders United?

What is your role at National Skills Coalition and how are you currently connected in the state of Michigan?

What is the current state of workforce at the federal level?

Why is this important for business to be connected into?

How can a business get involved in your work?

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About BLU

Business Leaders United for Workforce Partnerships (BLU) is comprised of employers from a range of industries across the nation who are concerned about our nation’s skills mismatch, who are working with local partners to train and hire community residents for skilled jobs, and who want our country’s policymakers to follow suit and invest - aggressively and effectively - in the skills of America’s workers.

BLU provides a common platform from which these diverse business leaders can jointly communicate to national policymakers, the press, and the American public about the effective industry-based strategies they’ve developed which could serve as models for a more comprehensive national skills policy.

Chris Holman welcomes Bill Hufnagel, President & CEO Dart Bank, Mason, MI.

Dart Bank marked a significant milestone on Friday, March 21, tell us about that?

Share the story of Rollin C. Dart and his son, Doc Campbell Dart, in 1925?

Talk about the growth and your footprint across Michigan at this point?

So, I'm hearing trust, innovation, and a deep dedication to the communities, go deeper into those innovations?

Michigan Bankers Association was on hand for your celebration, share how they help Dart Bank?

Where is Dart Bank headed at 100 years?

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Since 1925, Dart Bank has been more than just a financial institution to our communities.

They’ve been a trusted life-long financial partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses reach their goals. For the past century, we’ve built relationships rooted in trust, innovation, and community, evolving and expanding to meet the needs of our customers while staying true to our core values. As we recognize this milestone, we honor the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the next 100 years of serving you. Thank you for being part of our journey!

Celebrate With Dart Bank!

On April 25, 2025 from 11a.m. – 1p.m. ET, they invite you to celebrate 100 years of Dart Bank at one of these branches: Mason, Holt, and Grand Ledge. Join us as we honor a century of trust, innovation, and community with special festivities at each location:

Lunch and light refreshments

MSU Bakers cookies

Free gifts and prize drawings

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Prize drawing will take place on April 25, 2025. Winners will be selected at random and contacted by phone. You do not need to be present to win.