As Michiganders lost their jobs during the pandemic, there was a rise in need for skilled workers in many industries. It pains me to say it, but many who lost their jobs will find it hard to replace them at the same level.

For employers in the Greater Lansing region, the focus on attracting and retaining talent has been a priority and challenge even before the global pandemic.

There are many “hot jobs” available in our community, but do potential employees have the degree or credentials to fill them?

In Michigan, we have a mismatch in college enrollment, workers with college degrees, and jobs that can support an individual or family.

Despite the statewide and national decline in FAFSA applications, community college leaders are hopeful that their students can help fill the gap that larger colleges are seeing in their enrollment numbers.

Alarmed by a slump in college enrollment among low-income students, a broad coalition of Michigan business leaders, foundations and college advocacy groups is recommending changes to the state’s college financial aid programs.

A rebounding economy, prevalence of Covid-19 vaccines and in-person learning may not be enough to draw students who have turned their backs on a postsecondary education.

Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) is offering free assistance through the month of August to recent high school graduates and families still interested in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Gov. Whitmer and the Michigan Community Service Commission Thursday announced Michigan’s $24.5 million AmeriCorps investment that will support over 1,000 AmeriCorps members tackling some of the state’s toughest challenges.

Michigan was one of the most affected states in terms of college enrollment losses last fall, with a decline of 9.2 percent, according to Ryan Fewins-Bliss, executive director of the Michigan College Access Network.