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Great Lakes Boat Builder School Success – A Success Story

Alexander works on an engine.
A WIOA Adult and MiLEAP Success Story

Alexander Hofius wanted to have a career on the water. He had options, but he decided to continue his education in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula. He attended the Great Lakes Boat Building School in Cedarville to become a Marine Service Technician.

It was difficult for Alexander to pay for his training. He knew Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! could help him overcome that barrier so he visited their Sault Ste. Marie office. After a comprehensive meeting, it was determined that Alexander was eligible for WIOA Adult and MiLEAP funding. With the help of a Michigan Works! staff member, he was enrolled in both programs. Through these programs, we helped him pay for gas cards and ferry boat tickets; he needed both while he was attending classes at the Boat Building School.

Alexander excelled in his training, and he graduated with a credential in August of 2022. He has since been hired full-time at KLG Powersports; Walloon Lake Marina earning $18.00 an hour. The support we gave him, including funds for tools and clothing, helped Alexander get ready to win in the marine industry!

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Learn more about our programs and services on our Job Seekers page.

Medicaid in the Upper Peninsula

Navigating health coverage and work requirements can be confusing, so here’s a simple guide on how the program works and who fills what role:

Medicaid is a health care program funded by the state and federal government that provides health care services to eligible, low-income Michigan citizens, including adults, children, the elderly, pregnant woman, and some people with disabilities.

  • Upper Peninsula Health Plan (UPHP) is a managed care organization licensed by the State of Michigan to provide Medicaid medical services. UPHP helps eligible members access healthcare services, providers, care management, and member support after they are enrolled in Medicaid. They are the only organization of this kind in the Upper Peninsula. 
  • Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) administers Medicaid in Michigan, determines eligibility, manages enrollment through MI Bridges, and oversees Healthy Michigan Plan work requirement policies and exemptions.
  • Upper Peninsula Michigan Works! (UPMW) helps individuals connect with employment, education, training, and career services that may help them meet Healthy Michigan Plan work requirement activities and achieve their employment goals.

To learn more about Medicaid in the U.P, visit UPHP.com.