From Work Experience to Permanent Employment at MI Gravel

MI Gravel is a family-owned business located in the Thumb Area. The work there is not a sit-down, clean, non-physical type of job, it’s quite the opposite and certainly not for everyone. Because of the unique environment, it can be an added challenge to attract and retain employees in this field of employment.

A Career Coach who was working with the Youth Work Experience Program introduced one of the eligible participants to GST Michigan Works! Business Services Professional and suggested that he would be a good placement fit for MI Gravel. After a discussion with the potential participant, the BSP reached out to MI Gravel to inquire if they had interest in being a work experience site and mentoring this youth. Without hesitation, Bob Gilling said “YES!”. Shortly after he interviewed Steven Jackson, introduced him to the work environment and gave him the Young Professionals work experience offer of 60 days, which Steven gladly accepted. 

GST Michigan Works! was able to provide supportive services to Steven including financial assistance with the purchase of high quality, steel-toe boots, ear protection and heavy-duty gloves to get him started. 

Bob shared that Steven was able to experience all the beginner’s job description tasks listed and at the end of this 60-day work experience he could demonstrate that knowledge. Bob stated, “He [Steven] fits nicely with the rest of the crew, too, which is really important!”

Following the work experience trial period, Bob offered Steven a permanent position which he accepted! Steven is now gainfully employed as a Site Operator and will be participating in specialized training in the fall. Mentoring is not easy, but it can lead to some wonderful outcomes for all invovled!