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Traverse Connect | The Connection – February 18, 2026

Michigan Business Network: Traverse Connect

Economic Strategy Sessions Kick Off

How are education and workforce training evolving, and what does that mean for employers navigating rapid change? In this Economic Strategy Session, Northwestern Michigan College will explore how higher education and training are shifting to better meet the needs of today’s workers and regional businesses. The session will highlight practical implications for small and mid-sized employers, showcase real examples of successful NMC–business partnerships, and outline current resources available to support employee training and upskilling.

Led by Jason Slade, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Northwestern Michigan College, the presentation will conclude with a facilitated conversation with a local business leader, demonstrating how forward-thinking education partnerships can help businesses stay competitive. Participants will leave with concrete insights and ideas they can apply immediately to strengthen their workforce and prepare for what’s next.

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News Roundup

→ Investor news! Almost two years in the making, it’s time to celebrate the 40 Over 40 Portrait Exhibition with Crackerjack Photography.

What We're Reading

→ Traverse City commissioners discussed housing tax incentives, a process for West End development proposals, and voted on suspending the City’s fund balance policy.

→ “VoxBox,” hosted by Traverse City Design Week, is one of four recipients of the Make/Shift Pitch Haus grant program.

→ The City of Traverse City will host the “City Strategy in Motion” on February 19 to showcase municipal progress and outline strategic goals for the upcoming year.

→ The Village at Grand Traverse Commons will host The Ides of March, a free Shakespeare festival featuring food, drink, and live performance on March 15.

→ Cherry Capital Airport will launch daily nonstop service to Boston with Delta Air Lines starting May 2026.

→ The Fourth Annual International Fireworks Championship will return to Traverse City on September 11 and 12 at Turtle Creek Stadium.

→ Traverse City Horse Shows and the region are featured in Equestrian Living’s Winter 2026 issue.

→ Governor Whitmer released her proposal for Michigan’s FY27 Budget, which will kick off negotiations between the administration and the Michigan Legislature.

EVENTS

Traverse Connect’s upcoming in-person and virtual events.
February 26 from 5:15 to 7:00 p.m.
March 5 & 6
March 18 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
March 19 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

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