LUNCH & LEARN

GST Michigan Works! along with the Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership (SEDP) hosted a Lunch and Learn on November 19th, 2021 at the Owosso Armory.  The focus of this event was to have employers look more closely at their own company culture and outside perception to help them hire and retain qualified people.  On-the-Job-Training (OJT), Incumbent Worker Training (IWT), Business Resource Network (BRN), and USDOL Apprenticeships were also discussed as programs that could assist employers in achieving their hiring and retention goals.

The program was well attended, both in person and virtually, as both options were available.  The Lunch and Learn was scheduled for an hour, but attendees were still asking question 15 to 20 minutes after the presentation ended.  In speaking with employers that had attended the presentation, most found it to be informative and gave them knowledge that they could apply.  We have been asked for more information on the programs presented and should see more company involvement with them.

The positives that have come out of this event are that employers want to speak more one-on-one with their BSP about possible solutions and the idea of industry sector collaboration.

The presenters were:

Cindy Thornthwaite, Mike McGee, and Chris Schueler.