Michigan Business Beat | Jose Reyes, NPower Michigan - Building A Talent Pipeline in Michigan

Michigan Business Network

Originally uploaded July 10th, re-edited September 30th. Chris Holman welcomes Jose Reyes, Executive Director, NPower Michigan, Detroit, MI. Can you explain what NPower Michigan is and the mission it serves? Specifically, how does the organization aim to build a talent pipeline that meets employer needs and engages the local community? Your organization focuses on enhancing workforce readiness through digital literacy and credentials. Could you describe some of the key programs or initiatives NPower Michigan offers to help individuals prepare for careers in the tech industry? How does NPower Michigan approach recruiting individuals from underserved communities? What partnerships or strategies have been particularly effective in helping young people transition from high school to further education or the workforce? Industry collaboration seems to be a significant part of your strategy. Can you provide examples of how NPower Michigan works with industries like Mobility, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Green Energy to create career pathways and apprenticeships? NPower Michigan has achieved impressive outcomes, such as high job placement rates and significant wage increases for program graduates. What are some of the key factors that have contributed to these successes, and what plans do you have to continue building on this momentum? About our guest: José Reyes serves as the Executive Director of NPower Michigan. He is responsible for leading NPower’s strategic direction, overseeing its administrative management, and directing collaborative partnerships within the region. José has been credited for his role in developing the White House recognized Tech-Hire initiative in Detroit, as well as: - Expanding the Grow Detroit Young Talent summer youth program to 8,000 children. - Establishing a strategic partnership with DPSCD for redevelopment of 21st century CTE schools for youth and adults. - Establishing the City of Detroit’s first youth engagement center for Opportunity Youth. - Opening American Job Centers within two Michigan Department of Corrections facilities. - Creating the Detroit Registered Apprentice Program (D-RAP), a DOL recognized best practice model. With nearly two decades of experience, José is nationally recognized as a subject matter expert on Workforce and Economic Development. José has provided consultation services to other Workforce Boards, including the City of New Orleans and the state of Nevada. He continues to serve as a panelist for Policy Link, a national research and action institute dedicated to advancing economic and social equity for boys and men of color. Prior to joining NPower, he served as the Director of Workforce and Community Development at Washtenaw Community College, creating innovative, industry-driven talent pipeline strategies. José is a graduate of the University of Michigan and holds a Bachelor’s in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Social Work. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/