21 st Century Workforce Initiative Quarterly Meeting March 29, 2007 Brenda C. Njiwaji, Director Bureau of Workforce Programs Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth

Agenda I.Introduction and Context Brenda C. Njiwaji II.Great Lakes Trade Adjustment Larry Molnar Assistance Center (GLTAAC) III.Michigan Manufacturing Bruce Knapp Technology Center Michael Vincent IV. South Central Michigan Works! Michael Polzin Business Solutions Professional Donna Winthrop V.DLEG Bureau of Labor Market Information & Strategic Initiatives Rick Waclawek VI. Rapid Response Lloyd Conway VII. Closing Remarks Brenda C. Njiwaji

THE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS APPROACH TO LAY-OFF PREVENTION A 21 st CENTURY INITIATIVE Business Solutions Professional Certification

Program Purpose To develop the ability of qualified individuals to perform the function of the Business Solutions Professional (BSP). The BSP collaborates with workforce, education, and economic development partners to focus on serving business through a “demand driven” workforce development system. The BSP follows the Business Enhancement through Services and Training (BEST) process to leverage all available partner assets to keep business competitive in a global market in order to save as well as create jobs and to work together for the collective good of the community.

Training Focus To train workforce, economic development professionals, educators, and labor leaders to apply the B.E.S.T approach to avert layoffs (downsizing, closing), to support businesses in assisting with growth and expansion, and to attract new business, in order to reduce the adverse effects of closures on individual workers and the community.

Course Content Demand Driven Workforce Development - demand driven system, partner domains, and assets tools BEST Process – method Process Consultancy Skills Partnership - asset partners, area leaders Changing Work – new work systems, practices, outcomes & managing change Unionized Company/workforce – union as stakeholder, decision maker, partner

Competencies Identify appropriate assets needed to develop customized solutions for businesses in varying situations. Apply the BEST process to effectively address the real needs of the business and workers Work in partnership with others -assist partners, agency staff, community stakeholders, business decision makers, and union leaders - to achieve optimal outcomes for the business and workers based on available assets and situations.

Course Completion Requirements 42 hours of classroom 42 hours of field work Internet based assignments Field work can be done in partnership environments.

Graduation Value Student will receive BSP certificate and can Purchase 6 lifelong learning credits or Student can do additional assignments and purchase 6 level four SSC 490 credits. (Can be used for Bachelors or Masters Degrees)

Costs Cost of training, materials, lodging, and most meals are covered under the 21 st Century Grant. Travel and non covered meals are not covered.

Enrollment Information Christine Quinn President South Central Michigan Works ext 108 Jim Lautenschleger Business Solutions Officer South Central Michigan Works!