Ferris State University is focused on sustaining and growing our West Michigan businesses and is planning a workforce development summit to connect with the region’s employers and learn how to best assist them.

The event is planned for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 in Ferris State’s Interdisciplinary Resource Center, 1301 S. State Street in Big Rapids. The free event is open to employers whether they represent large businesses or small ones.

The purpose of the inaugural workforce summit is to identify strategies that will strengthen West Michigan’s workforce and economy, said Dr. Kasey Thompson, special assistant to the president for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and an associate professor.

“We are committed to growing the economy of the state of Michigan, but with a specific focus on businesses in the West Michigan area,” Thompson said. “Ferris State University is a community partner and is taking the lead in helping to provide resources that enable West Michigan business growth.”

Summit topics will include housing, recruitment, credit and non-credit workforce training and educational opportunities.

Thompson said the Ferris State leaders believe the university is a resource for the region, and part of the solution in sustaining a viable Michigan workforce. Ferris State has faculty and staff with experience in a wide variety of industries as well as expertise in what it takes to start, maintain, and grow a business.

“We have to collectively work on identifying issues that prohibit business growth in our region and Ferris State is facilitating the plan to overcome those obstacles and is committed to creating a clearer pathway for West Michigan businesses to flourish,” Thompson said.

Lunch will be provided for all registered guests. Registration is due by Monday, April 8 and is available at this link.

Additional information is available by contacting Thompson at (231) 591-2766 or by email at kaseythompson@ferris.edu.