Partnership to create U.P. job opportunities

Eagle Mine and Michigan Works! The Job Force Board are partnering with Northern Michigan University and additional training providers through a program designed to grow the local economy by creating new job opportunities.  The organizations are implementing a strategy that will provide employees with short-term training to gain skills and obtain jobs.  The partners recently received a grant that will fund the training plan’s activities.

This opportunity was made possible through the Michigan Workforce Development Agency’s Strategic Fund.  The Strategic Fund was introduced by Michigan Governor Rick Snyder in January 2013 and provides competitive awards through Skilled Trades Training Fund program grants to Michigan Works! agencies.  Grants are used to fund employer-driven training in high-demand occupations.  Funds are awarded to Michigan companies for skilled trades training to better match talent with employer needs.

Participating businesses must commit to hire participants at the successful completion of classroom training, or in cases of on-the-job or incumbent worker training, retain the employees at the completion of training.

“We work closely with local employers to help them find workers that possess the skills they need to grow their business,” said Paul Arsenault, Michigan Works! The Job Force Board. “The process involves employers in every step, including identifying key skill sets and recommending the appropriate type of training they need. This level of involvement translates into job growth for the business and job opportunities for our local workers.”

“This program will provide job seekers with the vital skills they need to be effective employees at Eagle Mine,” said Dan Blondeau, Eagle Mine Spokesperson. “The program is a great fit for the community because it helps employees grow.  We have a strong workforce here in the U.P. and training programs like this offer a great opportunity to enhance workers capabilities.”

Training is underway for 161 employees, including 90 new hires.  The training will help ensure safe, productive, and successful operations with well qualified talent at Eagle Mine.  For jobseekers wishing to apply for openings at Eagle Mine, please visit the Michigan Works! Talent Connect website at www.mitalent.org and search for jobs under “Eagle Mine”, or visit any of the Michigan Works! service centers for assistance with resume creation, finding and applying for open positions with Eagle Mine or other companies in the region.