(Source: Going PRO Talent Fund website)

LANSING, Mich. — Three agencies in Dickinson and Iron counties are among 22 in the Upper Peninsula that will receive a share of $661,366 in fiscal year 2025 Cycle 2 Going PRO Talent Fund grants from the state to support training in high-demand skilled positions.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity has awarded a total $16 million in Cycle 2 grants to 297 businesses for use with nearly 8,000 Michigan workers.

The U.P. investment will aid in training 112 new hires and 202 current employees in high-demand, skilled positions, LEO stated in a news release.

Going PRO funding covers a variety of employer-driven training programs, including classroom instruction, on-the-job training for new employees and apprenticeships that lead to industry-recognized credentials. Workers who complete training supported by the Talent Fund see an average hourly wage increase of 7.2%.

This cycle alone will support nearly 1,800 Michiganders enrolled in registered apprenticeship programs, LEO stated in the news release.

Local grant awards included:

— Billerud Quinnesec, Breitung Township, Dickinson County, $57,500;

— G. Brooks Electric, Iron Mountain, Dickinson County, $10,500; and

— Upper Great Lakes Family Health Center Ice Lake, Iron River, Iron County, $5,500.

Billerud had the U.P.’s second-highest amount awarded for this cycle, just behind Burton Industries of Ironwood in Gogebic County at $59,290.

In December, Billerud in Escanaba received nearly $108,000 and UP Health System-Marquette $117,500.

Since 2014, the Going PRO Talent Fund program has provided training for about 225,000 Michigan workers and supported more than 7,400 businesses.

“The Going PRO Talent Fund is a powerful example of how we’re investing in people and the future of Michigan’s economy,” LEO Director Susan Corbin said. “By connecting workers to training that leads to good-paying, secure jobs and helping businesses develop the talent they need to grow, we’re creating real opportunity across every region of the state.”

“As a lifelong resident and farmer, I’ve seen how the Going PRO Talent Fund gives people the chance to learn real skills and land good-paying jobs without leaving Michigan,” said state Sen. Ed McBroom, R-Waucedah Township. “This program helps families stay together, businesses grow and our local economy thrive because when our people succeed, the whole region rises with them.”

Grants through the Going PRO Talent Fund are awarded in partnership with Michigan Works! agencies. Employers are encouraged to work closely with their local Michigan Works! Service Center to identify key training needs and develop customized plans to fill workforce gaps. All training programs must result in industry-recognized credentials that enhance workforce mobility and flexibility.

“The Going PRO Talent Fund empowers employers to strengthen their workforce, boost productivity, and invest in long-term growth,” said Debb Brunell, CEO at Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!. “We’re proud to partner with businesses across our region to support the high-quality training opportunities that not only move their organizations forward, but also equip employees with the skills to succeed and grow in their careers. UPMW looks forward to continuing this effort and meeting the needs of regional companies.”

To learn more about the Going PRO Talent Fund, its impact and the full list of awardees, go online to Michigan.gov/TalentFund.