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Billy Harper was recently named Alumnus of the Year during the 2003 Michigan Works! Alumni Celebration on February 5 at the Michigan State Capitol Building in Lansing. This event puts a human face on workforce development programs. |
 (left to right) SEMCA Workforce Development Board Chair Frank Lopez; State Representative Kathleen Law and SEMCA Alumnus of the Year, Billy Harper. |
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Billy Harper, a resident of Flat Rock, came to the center after being laid-off from his previous employer of 30 years. Despite his age and lack of interview skills, Harper was determined to attend the Trainco Truck Driving School, a dream Harper had for a long time but couldn’t pursue because he didn’t have a high school diploma. It wasn’t long before Harper would make his dream a reality by obtaining his GED through PAL, graduating with a CDL-A License and becoming a truck driver for NTB Trucking in Byron Center. |
 (left to right) SEMCA Workforce Development Board Chair Frank Lopez and Co-Chair, Charlie Mahoney; State Representative Kathleen Law and SEMCA Alumnus of the Year, Billy Harper. |
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Twenty-seven outstanding graduates of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and Work First Programs were recognized this year. The event was well attended by family members and employer representatives, as well as Workforce Development Board members from the service delivery area, local elected officials, and job-training professionals from the 25 Michigan Works! agencies. There was also 51 legislators on-hand to honor the award recipients and recognize the efforts of Michigan Works! The alumni celebration provides an opportunity to see first-hand how WIA and Work First programs improve the lives of thousands of Michigan residents every year. Both programs are integral components of the Michigan Works! system of service to both employers and job seekers across the state. |
 Billy Harper (left) and Rich Garrison (right) Billy’s instructor at Trainco. |
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