Employers need qualified talent. You can help.
Investing in young people early is key for Berrien County’s economic future.
Of the Berrien County students who graduated in 2022, 60% did not attend college or a trade school.*
Why not develop their skills as Berrien County employees BEFORE they leave high school? Through this registered apprenticeship
program, high school students can get the direct training needed to become this county’s next pharmacist, project manager, veterinary technician, software engineer, accountant, or logistics coordinator.
*W.E. Upjohn Institute, 2023
Berrien talent collaborative’s HIStory
In 2023, a group of education, business and chamber leaders met to discuss Berrien County’s talent problem. They recognized that:
- Businesses are unable to find and retain workers.
- Families are facing financial barriers. They cannot afford to send their children to traditional four-year colleges/universities. Students do not want to incur debt.
- Students who receive post-secondary training are entering the workforce under prepared and unable to meet the specific and unique standards of individual companies.
- There is a misconception that Berrien County lacks career opportunities, making it a less desirable place to live. As a result of this meeting, the Berrien Talent Collaborative was created. The Berrien Talent Collaborative is a partnership aimed at developing an education to career pipeline, with a focus on registered apprenticeship training.
benefits
Registered apprenticeships through the Berrien Talent Collaborative will:
- Partner directly with Lake Michigan College and school districts to influence training and customize coursework/subject matter to meet local business’ needs.
- Provide students with a cost effective, high-quality set of skills to ensure lifelong success.
- Produce talented graduates who have the skills and drive to meet your company’s needs.
- Serve as a direct talent pipeline that will accelerate efforts to create a workforce of the future.
Joining the Berrien Talent Collaborative as an economic partner is a long-term investment in Berrien County’s future. Fill out our short form to request more information if you’re interested in becoming an economic partner of BTC.
