Provided photo Pictured from L-R, Amy Kraatz, MiLeap Coordinator, Glen Ackerman-Behr, GCC Director of Workforce Development, Steve Lehto, Business Services Specialist, Elaine Eikenberry, MiLeap Navigator, Trisha Todd, Talent Services Manager for Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon and Gogebic Counties.

Gogebic Community College was awarded the Michigan Learning and Education Advancement Program (MiLEAP) grant through Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! The purpose of the MiLeap grant helps job seekers transition from short-term education and training to high skill, high wage employment, resulting in an industry-recognized credential with reduced debt and addresses regional workforce needs by upscaling existing employees.

Gogebic Community College commits to providing the following services in collaboration with Upper Peninsula Michigan Works as part of the MiLeap grant: provide direction for secondary or post-secondary programs, and the use of multiple funding options to support student success including both training and credentialing in the program of study.

Training opportunities include manufacturing or health care. The target population is dislocated workers, unemployed, underemployed, COVID-19 essential workers, disabled, workers age 55+, returning citizens, and rural/distressed communities. Both current students already attending GCC or any new students are eligible for the grant provided that they meet the target population criteria or live in a rural/distressed community.

“We will work collaboratively with UPMW to ensure our goals align with the goals of the grant, including reporting efforts and performance measures. We believe our support and commitment will significantly improve the workforce in the region, and we look forward to the opportunity to make a difference in our community, state, and workforce,” said Dr. George McNulty, GCC President. To learn more about the MiLeap Grant and how students can benefit, please call Judy Aho at Michigan Works (906) 482-6916 x1647 or email her at: jaho@upmichiganworks.org