Regional Workforce Development Consortium

Funder: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
Amount: $656,269
Funding Period: 8/1/01-4/30/06

In 1998, MCC played a lead role in organizing the I-75-I-69 Workforce Development Consortium to foster a collaborative effort to connect the needs of the workforce and the workplace in a regional context. This initiative is consistent with MCC’s regional positioning, coming into play through the development of the Regional Technology Center. In October, 2001, the Mott Foundation provided funded the reconvening of the consortium to complete a number of initiatives of value to consortium members. When the consortium was formed, leaders from five counties were involved – Genesee, Shiawassee, Lapeer, St. Clair, and Oakland. Following the development of the consortium, MCC has been involved in efforts in Livingston County, most notably, the development and operation of the Livingston County M-TEC. Recognizing the importance of involving Livingston County, the consortium was expanded to include Livingston County. Shortly after, four more counties were added – Sanilac, Huron, Tuscola and Macomb, bringing the total of counties represented to ten. Representatives from the following entities make-up each county structure: Intermediate School District (ISD), Community College, local Economic Development organization, local Workforce Development agency, Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from specific businesses and industry. The four major initiatives funded by the Mott Foundation are the development of a regional skill assessment survey, mapping of the employment readiness and supportive services structure in the region, and the identification of model workforce and economic development projects that have implications for this region.