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.

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Learn more about our programs and services by visiting 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.