Michigan Works! West Central hosted the 2023 MiCareerQuest West Central event inside
Ferris State University's Jim Wink Arena on Tuesday, May 9. (Photo is courtesy of
Michigan Works! West Central)
Career exploration and college readiness were the main focus for nearly 1,500 students visiting Ferris State University on Tuesday, May 9, during a hands-on experience at the 2023 MiCareerQuest West Central event inside Jim Wink Arena.
Visiting from 19 different high schools based in Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Newaygo, Oceana and Osceola counties, the ninth graders enjoyed an interactive and diverse experience highlighted by exhibits, engaging industry professionals and exposure to various regional in-demand career fields.
“The goal of MiCareerQuest is to expose these students to the different in-demand careers available in our region, so they can better adjust their high-school and post-secondary education paths to fit any occupation that excites them,” said Jonathan Eppley, the communication and marketing manager for Michigan Works! West Central. “On top of that, we hope they had fun engaging with the employers and training providers and taking part in the variety of hands-on activities available at the event.”
Eppley further noted that this event returned in-person for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic, adding, “Things went very smoothly, and we’ve heard nothing but positive feedback from employers, educators, volunteers and students.”
The 2023 MiCareerQuest West Central event’s focus was career exploration and exposure rather than a traditional job fair, Eppley said, noting, “It is designed to spark students’ interest and introduce them to in-demand occupations in our region and across the state. We showcase occupations in four industry sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, agribusiness and in-demand career fields, like skilled trades.”
Forty-plus employers and organizations specializing in training featured various career options and paths within the industries. Student attendees had 20 minutes devoted to each industry quadrant to chat with presenters and participate in hands-on activities before progressing to the next quadrant.
The students learned about in-demand jobs now and into the future and opportunities for them to fill talent shortages in the near and distant future.
“A special thanks goes out to Ferris State University for allowing us use of Wink Arena; to our event sponsors, including Cargill and the West Michigan Plumbers, Pipefitters and Service Trades Union Local 174; and to our many exhibitors and volunteers. Without everyone working together, we would not be able to make this amazing, one-day event happen,” Eppley said.
For more information, visit Michigan Works! West Central and click the link for a video feature.