18 Local Employers Strengthen Workforce Through Going PRO Talent Fund

Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! partners with local businesses to develop training plans and secure nearly $943,000 in state workforce funding.  

Eighteen Macomb and St. Clair County employers are receiving nearly $943,000 in state funding through the Going PRO Talent Fund, a competitive grant that helps Michigan businesses train, develop, and retain skilled workers. 

The most recent round of awards, part of the fiscal year 2026 cycle one application period, was announced in December 2025 by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). 

The grants, awarded in partnership with Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works!, will support hundreds of local employees through short-term, industry-recognized training that leads to stronger skills, higher wages, and long-term career growth. 

Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! plays an active role in helping businesses access the fund, guiding employers through every step of the process from attending information sessions and developing training plans to submitting strong, competitive applications. 

Group of Drake Enterprises employees holding training completion certificates.
Drake Enterprises employees completing training funded through the Going PRO Talent Fund.

One company that has seen the lasting impact of the program is Drake Enterprises, Inc., a past Going PRO Talent Fund recipient that also received funding in this latest round. 

“Employees come to Drake looking for career growth and opportunities due to our apprenticeship and training programs, all made possible by grants like Going PRO,” said Heather Dombrowski of Drake Enterprises, Inc. 

Since participating in the program, Drake has seen measurable results, including reduced turnover, increased promotions, and greater employee confidence in the company’s commitment to career growth. Apprentices have become role models for others aspiring to advance their skills, contributing to improved quality and productivity across the organization. 

Awarded employers in Macomb and St. Clair counties represent industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare and automotive technology. Fiscal year 2026 cycle one awardees include: 

Contrast Mechanical, SLW Warren LLC, PCS Company, Quality Care Rehabilitation Professionals Inc., PTM Corporation, JB Cutting Inc., Professional Contract Services Inc., Drake Enterprises Inc., RC Heating & Cooling, Ultraform Industries Inc., MAG Automotive LLC, Magna International (Magna Powertrain Sterling Heights and Shelby Foam Systems), Prostaff Physical Therapy, Power Solutions, Horstman Inc., Paslin, Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, and Husky Precision Inc. 

Through partnerships like these, Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! connects businesses with funding and resources to strengthen their workforce and drive economic growth. 

The next Going PRO Talent Fund application cycle will open this spring. Employers interested in learning more or preparing for the next funding round can register for an upcoming Going PRO Talent Fund information session at msc-mw.org/events/employers/. 

Media Contact:
Christina Cleveland
(586) 765-2387
christina.cleveland@msc-mw.org