PPA conducted a scan of the Michigan Works! (MW) network’s activities in three key areas of interest: the efforts to meet the needs of job seekers with barriers to employment, the efforts to connect individuals with middle-skill jobs (those requiring less than a four-year degree), and the efforts to support the goal of having 60 percent of Michigan adults holding industry-valued postsecondary credentials by 2030. PPA conducted interviews with state-level stakeholders in the MW network and visited 14 of the 16 MW agencies to speak with staff and partners. The PPA team also reviewed relevant state and local program materials, annual reports, and other documentation of agency activities. The resulting report was presented to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the funders, and the MW Association. The report included a summary of promising approaches within the network, what supports innovation within the network, and recommendations for opportunities to address gaps and leverage creative approaches.
Services:
- Best practices review
- Data collection & analysis
- Key informant interviews
- Site visits