State grants to fund personalized skill and degree attainment pathways

From left to right: Laura Stevens Matchett, Director of NMC Extended Education & Training; Lisa Schut, Regional Director at Northwest Michigan Works!; and Lisa vonReichbauer, Director of NMC Admissions
(Download a high-resolution version here.)TRAVERSE CITY – NMC has received $1.19 million in state grants to pilot a first-of-its kind collaborative and team of navigators aimed at creating nontraditional pathways to credentials and degrees for adult learners between 2025 and 2028.

“These investments reflect our deep commitment to adult learners and the communities that support them,” said Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “By working with local colleges and community leaders, we are removing barriers to education and helping more Michiganders earn the credentials they need to thrive in today’s economy.”

The NoMi Attainment Collaborative, which includes more than 20 agencies, led by NMC and Northwest Michigan Works!, today opened to new students. The goal is that within three years about 2,000 more northern Michigan residents will possess the certificates or degrees they need to increase their paychecks, thus growing the middle class, and contributing to a thriving regional economy.

“This collaboration is a powerful example of what happens when we imagine more for our region: more opportunity, more access, and more futures unlocked. Together, we’re building a community where learning truly lasts a lifetime,” said NMC President Nick Nissley.

Key to the collaborative’s approach is blurring the line between non-credit and traditional credit classes at NMC. Students will meet with grant-funded navigators for personalized support and access to low-barrier, try-it-out skill attainment opportunities. This stepping stone approach is paired with a “no wrong door” philosophy under which all collaborative members commit to meeting students’ needs first and referring to programs offered within our 10-county region.

“You can start small and follow your curiosity; dip your toes in welding, construction technology, health care, IT or more, without committing to a semester-long class,” said Laura Stevens Matchett, director of NMC Extended Education and Training. In addition, students may be able to obtain credit for prior learning, a strategic initiative at NMC.

The aim of the initiatives supported by the grants is to increase the proportion of working age adults who hold certifications and degrees from 49% to 55% in an 10-county region: Antrim, Benzie, Emmet, Charlevoix, Kalkaska, Manistee, Missaukee, Leelanau, Grand Traverse and Wexford. That translates to 2,344 individuals. Statewide, Michigan has a goal of 60% of adults having a degree or certificate by 2030. The grants are from the office of Sixty by 30.

“This grant will empower more people to achieve industry-recognized credentials and degrees, opening doors to stable, high-wage careers,” said Lisa Schut, regional director at Northwest Michigan Works! "By providing personalized support and breaking down barriers to education and employment, we are strengthening our workforce, expanding the middle class, and fostering long-term economic growth in northern Michigan.”

To get started, contact NMC Extended Education & Training at ees@nmc.edu or (231) 995-1700. A navigator will assist you in choosing your class or program, and with seeking support for entering an educational training pathway, all at your own pace — with you in the driver’s seat.

Current Collaborative members are:

• 20 Fathoms
• BEST Benzie County (LCAN)
• BATA
• Century & Clark
• Char Em ISD
• Davenport University
• Goodwill Inn
• Grand Traverse County
• Grand Valley State University
• GROW Benzie
• Manistee County Community Foundation
• Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center
• Michigan College Access Network
• Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center
• North Central Michigan College
• Networks Northwest
• Northwest Education Services
• Northwest Michigan Works!
• Northwestern Michigan College
• Sara Lee Frozen Bakery
• SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers
• Traverse Connect
• United Way
• West Shore Community College

 

Release Date: May 29, 2025

For More Information

Laura Stevens Matchett
Director of NMC Extended Education & Training
lmatchett@nmc.edu
(231) 995-1704