Chris Holman welcomes back Stephanie Beckhorn, Director, Office of Employment & Training (E&T), Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Watch Stephanie and Chris discuss Michigan's 2023 E&T report, workforce development, and LEO's impact on employment and training in the YouTube video shared below:

Their Topic of discussion: 2023 E&T Annual Report
Before we get started, can you tell us about LEO's Office of Employment and Training?

The Office of Employment & Training released its annual report this week. What are some of the key findings from that report?

What are the key partnerships and programs making the findings in this report possible?

Earlier this year, LEO unveiled the state’s first-ever Michigan Statewide Workforce Plan. How does the work of the Office of Employment and Training support this plan?

Where can people go to learn more about LEO’s Office of Employment and Training?

LEO shared a press release on this topic as well:

New report shines a light on the state’s efforts to drive business growth, attract and retain talent, and build vibrant communities

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan provides employment services to more participants than any other state in the Midwest and is #2 in the nation for helping adults get employed. These accomplishments are exemplified through the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) 2023 Employment and Training Annual Report. The report highlights the workforce resources being deployed across the state to drive continued business growth, build vibrant communities, and attract and retain key talent to fill the state’s vast pipeline of opportunities.

LEO’s Office of Employment and Training partners with Adult Education providers, Community Rehabilitation Programs and the Michigan Works! network to provide programs locally.

“Our dedication to creating opportunities that support Michiganders is key to building a resilient and inclusive economy,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin (left). “As we actively work to leave no one behind, I believe our partnerships with the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, and Workforce Development and Operations are crucial. These collaborations and resources ensure that all Michigan residents, regardless of disability, have access to meaningful employment opportunities. By working together, we not only support individuals in achieving their career goals but exemplify our commitment to ensuring every individual can contribute to and thrive within Michigan’s workforce."

Programs like the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Workforce Development and Operations are supported by nearly 800 employees and 40-plus programs, services and initiatives. These programs make up 26.5% of LEO’s budget, totaling $760 million.

During fiscal year 2023, LEO’s Office of Employment and Training served 296,282 individuals and 11,046 businesses, with 24,486 customers earning industry-recognized credentials, 83,107 receiving training, and 167,673 securing employment.

Supporting Workers and Businesses in an Ever-changing Economy

LEO Workforce Development services promote a flexible, innovative, effective and demand-driven workforce system, assist Michiganders with financial independence, and advocate for workforce development in the K-12 school system to help businesses and workers thrive in an ever-changing economy. Programs include Registered Apprenticeships and the Going PRO Talent Fund. 2023 accomplishments include:

• 264,907 individuals served
• 4,126 businesses serviced
• 78,327 Michiganders trained
• 161,717 Michiganders employed

Helping Individuals who are Blind or Visually Impaired Achieve Success

The Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) provides training and other services to help individuals who are blind or visually impaired achieve employment and independence. They offer the Business Enterprise Program – a Federal and State Randolph-Sheppard program that provides persons who are blind the opportunity to operate food service businesses in state and federal buildings and rest stops – and the Braille and Talking Book Library, which provides specially-formatted books to Michigan residents. BSBP accomplishments in 2023 include:

• 1,185 individuals served
• 559 Michiganders trained
• 673,403 audiobooks disseminated
• $8 million gross sales of Business Enterprise Program operators

Customized Workforce Solutions for Individuals with Disabilities

Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) develops customized workforce solutions for businesses and individuals with disabilities. MRS individual services include those for students and young adults, and their services for businesses include things like accommodations, staff retention and career development and talent development. MRS 2023 accomplishments include:

• 30,142 individuals served
• 6,850 businesses served
• 4,221 customers trained
• 5,799 customers employed

“By working with these resources through LEO’s Office of Employment and Training, we’re committed to helping Michiganders and businesses navigate a rapidly changing world of work,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, Deputy Director of LEO's Office of Employment and Training (left).“The challenges we face may be complex, but our approach to creating brighter futures for Michiganders is straightforward. These efforts and opportunities enable LEO to effectively support Michiganders while building our workforce, equipping individuals with the skills they need to thrive in this economy. We believe innovation is the bridge between challenge and opportunity. When we work together to explore creative solutions, everyone wins.”

These programs and services are part of LEO's unique All-Access approach to solving complex workforce problems and improving economic outcomes across the state by addressing structural challenges and removing barriers preventing people and businesses from reaching their full potential.

For more information about LEO’s Office of Employment and Training and other resources, visit www.michigan.gov/leo/employment-and-training.

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