Oakland Community College (OCC) and the Workforce Intelligence Network for Southeast Michigan (WIN) were honored in December 2024 with two prestigious awards from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The awards recognize the collaborative success in expanding advanced manufacturing apprenticeships throughout Southeast Michigan using the DOL’s Closing the Skills Gap (CSG) grant.
The two awards- the Sustainability and Expansion Award and the Adaptive Leadership Award - are a testament to the outstanding success of OCC and the WIN Board of Directors in working to grow apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing for small to medium-sized businesses since 2020.
OCC and partners involved in the CSG grant program receiving the Sustainability and Expansion Award reflects the visionary leadership and efforts to ensure the long-term impact of this program for the communities being served. The Adaptive Leadership Award highlights the innovative strategies and unwavering dedication from the team in navigating complexities and driving success.
"It’s hard to believe that five years have passed since OCC and WIN embarked on this transformative journey. Over this time, the team and partners have showcased unparalleled dedication and collaboration, which has led to incredible outcomes," said Joseph L. Petrosky, Vice Chancellor for Economic & Workforce Development at Oakland Community College. "Working together, we surpassed key performance goals but also set a benchmark for what’s possible in workforce development.”
Key Highlights from the results of the Closing the Skills Gap grant include:
- Apprentices Enrolled in Training: 200% of the target goal, with 1,442 participants enrolled compared to the initial target of 720.
- Total Participants: 129% of the target goal, with 4,155 participants engaged compared to the target of 3,200.
"These awards are a recognition of hard work, but also a reflection of the resilience and forward-thinking approach from OCC, WIN, and the stakeholder partners, even in challenging times. Everyone's commitment to building a sustainable future for advanced manufacturing apprenticeships has made a profound impact on workforce development in the region," said Michele Economou Ureste, WIN Executive Director. "A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Your hard work, dedication, and passion have been the driving forces behind our success! We also extend our gratitude to all our partner organizations for their collaboration and support."
Along with over 600 employers and stakeholder partners, the WIN Board of Directors involved in the Closing the Skills Gap grant Henry Ford College, Macomb Community College, Monroe County Community College, Mott Community College, Oakland Community College, Schoolcraft College, Washtenaw Community College, Wayne County Community College District, DESC/Detroit at Work,GST Michigan Works!, Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!, Michigan Works! Southeast, Oakland County Michigan Works! and SEMCA Michigan Works!
As the CSG program comes to a close on February 28, 2025, the WIN Board remains focused on building upon the lessons learned and relationships forged during this initiative.
"We are excited to continue creating opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen our regional workforce," said Petrosky. "Congratulations to our incredible team and partners. Together, we are creating lasting change and paving the way for a brighter future for Michigan career seekers."
Additionally, the Department of Labor will be sharing a follow-up resource factsheet in January 2025, featuring key materials and tools from the program. For additional registered apprenticeship tools and resources visit miapprenticeship.org.
About OCC
Oakland Community College offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training and expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
About WIN
The Workforce Intelligence Network for Southeast Michigan (WIN) is a division of SEMCA and a collaborative effort between nine community colleges and seven Michigan Works! Agencies. In partnership with numerous other organizations, WIN is working to create a comprehensive and cohesive workforce development system in Michigan, providing employers with the talent they need for success. Covering a 19-county area, including Eaton, Genesee, Hillsdale, Huron, Ingham, Jackson, Lapeer, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, Tuscola, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties WIN has been recognized as one of the top workforce collaboratives in the nation by the U.S. Department of Labor, and celebrated 10 years of research, engagements, and solutions in 2021. For additional information about WIN visit winintelligence.org/about-us/.
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