GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The State of Michigan's Going PRO Talent Fund is offering training that addresses skill deficits in the workplace.
Amy Lebednick is Business Solutions Director for West Michigan Works. She said on West Michigan's Morning News the fund helps businesses offset the cost of training their employees. It covers up to $2,000 per employee or $3,500 per apprentice. That includes both classroom and on-the-job training.
"Right now, businesses are still facing hiring and retention challenges, and training can quite often get pushed to the back burner because of costs," she said. "So, this program helps to remove that barrier, and it allows businesses to invest in their current workforce, build skills internally - which also allows them to stay competitive."
Lebednick added that that is important in a tight labor market. She noted that employers can use the Talent Fund to onboard and help train new hires or provide advance skill development for current workers and registered apprenticeships.
"We consistently see strong results from businesses that participate; really good outcomes," Lebednick told WOOD Radio. "They report increased productivity, improved employee retention, and for them, reduced hiring costs - because they're able to grow their talent from within."
She said it boosts employee engagement, and they are more likely to stay on the job when they see that an employer is investing in their development. They also can earn higher wages, once they advance their skill level.
###