During the program this week, host Phil Tower welcomes Bill Rayl, executive director of workforce solutions at The Michigan Manufacturers Association. Bill is MMA’s point person for efforts to develop sustainable talent ecosystems that serve the workforce needs of MMA members around the state. We’ve been hearing for years now that so many of the trades and businesses in Michigan that help to build things need talented workers…and The Michigan Manufacturers Association is taking the initiative by building collaboratives across the state of Michigan by partnering schools with local manufacturers to ensure companies have access to top talent and students have access to fulfilling career opportunities. This is a private-public partnership created by the Michigan Manufacturers Association, designed to offer students a wide range of opportunities.
Online: Michigan Manufacturers Association

In the second half of our program, Phil speaks with Erin Skene-Pratt, executive director of the Michigan Afterschool Partnership. While afterschool programs across Michigan have served more than 67,000 children since July 1 of last year, there are more than 750,000 youth on afterschool program waiting lists. · Afterschool programs include daycare and childcare, which are topics for concern and negotiation on the upcoming state budget. The Michigan Afterschool Partnership works to encourage policymakers to continue recognizing the critical importance of out-of-school time programs and to allocate sustainable funding to ensure that every child can benefit from these life-changing programs. In the summer specifically, many youths lack access to three meals a day, and adults are at home, as many are at work. OST provides a safe space but also activities, friendships, and meals.
Online: The Michigan Afterschool Partnership