Honoring Lisa Baldyga, JMG’s October Specialist of the Month
Networks Northwest is proud to celebrate Lisa Baldyga, a dedicated Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) specialist who serves students at Northwest Education Services Career Tech Center and Northwestern Michigan College. Lisa has been honored by JMG, a program of Youth Solutions, as the October “Specialist of the Month.” For more than seven years, she has supported youth through JMG with a combination of experience, compassion, and creativity that sets her apart. Before becoming a JMG Specialist, Lisa
“Apprenticeships Work” for Thompsonville Couple
Northwest Michigan Works! congratulates Thomas Gavett on starting his apprenticeship as a Water Systems Operation Specialist with the Thompsonville Department of Public Works (DPW). His journey was inspired by his fiancée, Serena Kozora, a graduate of the Childcare Apprenticeship at Whistle Stop Learning Center, LLC. Thompsonville, a small local community with limited workforce opportunities, is embracing apprenticeships as a way to train and retain skilled workers in critical professional roles. The
.png){kind=logo}
How Can We Improve Trash, Recycling, and More in Your Community?
What if your recycling bin or drop-off site could accept more, or you had access to new ways to start composting? Networks Northwest is working with Antrim, Charlevoix, Manistee, Missaukee, and Wexford County on their Materials Management processes, and are actively seeking responses from residents and visitors to the Northwest Lower Michigan Materials Management Plan Resident Survey. The anonymous survey can be completed in 5-10 minutes with responses directly impacting the goals and objectives and action
Young Professionals Welding & Firefighting Programs Forge Skills, Confidence, and Career Pathways for Local Youth
The Young Professionals program—an initiative providing work experience, job skills, and career exploration for youth ages 14–24—celebrates a landmark summer of achievement with its 2025 Welding and Firefighting cohorts. Funded by the State of Michigan and delivered in partnership with local school districts, the program connects students with businesses and training in high-demand fields such as welding, construction, IT, and public safety to reduce youth unemployment and build long-term career
