Local workforce development professional Amanda Balcom has been recognized with a Michigan Works! Shining Star award from the Michigan Works! Association for going above and beyond to help job seekers and employers in West Michigan. The Shining Star awards celebrate Michigan Works! frontline staff who, through dedication and outstanding contributions to workforce development, personify the Michigan Works! mission.
Balcom is a Career Coach at West Michigan Works!. She has been an integral part of the team for nearly nine years. Balcom was recognized for her ability to balance strong relationships with colleagues while keeping a sharp focus on organizational priorities and performance goals.
“Amanda Balcom exemplifies everything we value here at West Michigan Works! — she balances caring relationships with a drive for excellence,” said Jacob Maas, CEO, West Michigan Works!. “Over nearly nine years, she has moved our organization forward through leadership, collaboration and dedication to both people and performance. She truly lifts up everyone around her, while keeping our mission at heart.”
Amanda fosters teamwork by listening to diverse perspectives, supports staff by helping train new team members, and volunteers for work groups dedicated to improving internal processes. Her contributions create a positive, productive environment that benefits both coworkers and clients.
“The Michigan Works! system is successful because of frontline staff like Amanda,” said Ryan Hundt, CEO, Michigan Works! Association. “She is a Shining Star for going above and beyond to support Michigan job seekers and employers every single day. We are proud to honor her.”
The award was presented at the Michigan Works! Association Annual Conference in Kalamazoo on September 9.
