Hands-On Skills in a Real-World Job – A Success Story

Ryszard wears safety equipment as he works in a lab.

Ryszard was home from college, where he was studying Chemical Engineering and was looking for a job that would pay well and contribute to his future. Could we help him find higher-paying and more satisfying work? We were about to find out.

Our staff went to work finding suitable employment for Ryszard. They uncovered an opportunity at a local copper refinery doing hands-on work that directly applied to his career. Thanks to Michigan Works!, he spent his summer learning on the job and earning a sustainable wage.

“We were very pleased with everything,” said the refinery owners. “With Ryszard’s background in Chemical Engineering, he was able to help some of our employees work through processes and teach them some things in the lab.”

Ryszard was proud of his summer job. When asked about what surprised him during this experience, he reflected, “I was being paid for doing something. I could start an experiment and then be doing something that I thought would help while the experiment ran.” He continued, “I think it’ll give me a big leg up on future experience …It opened more doors.”

Through our helpful programs and community connections, Michigan Works! got Ryszard ready to win.

Learn more about our programs and services by visiting our Job Seekers page.