Investing in Workforce Development Through the Going PRO Talent Fund
GST Michigan Works! is proud to recognize LaFontaine Automotive Group for its continued commitment to developing and investing in its workforce through the FY25 Going PRO Talent Fund Cycle 1 Award.
On April 30, 2026, Business Solutions Professional Roy Reynolds presented a reimbursement check for $194,246.25 to Ryan LaFontaine and the LaFontaine Automotive Group leadership team in recognition of the company’s successful participation in the FY25 Going PRO Talent Fund Cycle 1 program.
The award reimbursed LaFontaine Automotive Group for eligible employee training conducted across 16 dealership locations throughout Michigan. Through the program, the company provided On-the-Job Training (OJT) for its Automotive Service Technician new hires, helping strengthen their technical skills while advancing their careers within the organization. In addition, Finance & Sales Managers completed Ally Financial F&I Manager Compliance Training, ensuring they remain knowledgeable in industry regulations, compliance requirements, and finance best practices.
The Going PRO Talent Fund allows Michigan employers to enhance employee skills, improve productivity, strengthen retention, and remain competitive by investing in workforce training. LaFontaine Automotive Group’s commitment to continuous employee development reflects its dedication to delivering exceptional customer service while creating long-term career opportunities for its team members.
Throughout the process, Roy worked closely with LaFontaine Automotive Group to identify training needs, navigate the Going PRO Talent Fund application process, and successfully secure funding that supports the company’s workforce development goals.
The FY25 Going PRO Talent Fund Cycle 1 Award supported training at the following LaFontaine Automotive Group locations:
- LaFontaine Buick GMC Inc.
- LaFontaine Buick GMC of Ann Arbor
- LaFontaine Buick GMC of Dearborn
- LaFontaine CDJR of Lansing
- LaFontaine Ford Grand Rapids
- LaFontaine Ford of Lansing
- LaFontaine Hyundai of Dearborn
- LaFontaine Imports of Ann Arbor
- LaFontaine Imports of Dearborn
- LaFontaine Imports of Livonia
- LaFontaine INFINITI of Ann Arbor
- LaFontaine Lincoln Grand Rapids
- LaFontaine Mazda of Kalamazoo
- LaFontaine Motors
- LaFontaine Volkswagen
- Mercedes-Benz of Kalamazoo
Jacqueline Leo, Human Resource Representative with LaFontaine Automotive Group, shared how meaningful the award was both personally and professionally after helping guide the application process from beginning to completion.
“The Going PRO Talent Fund allows us to continue investing in what matters most—our employees. By providing valuable training and development opportunities, we’re helping our team build new skills, grow their careers, and strengthen our organization for the future. We are grateful to GST Michigan Works! for supporting workforce development and helping make these opportunities possible.”
— Jacqueline Leo, Human Resource Representative, LaFontaine Automotive Group