Congratulations to Perrigo, our 2020 Employer of the Year

West Michigan Works! recognizes Perrigo as its 2020 Employer of the Year for its commitment to workforce strategies that increase skills, wages and retention of current employees; promotes a diverse workforce; and builds a workforce for the future. 

Perrigo is committed to providing opportunities for its employees to gain new skills through apprenticeships. To ensure employee success, they vet individuals for at least a year before placing them in an apprenticeship program. They also developed an internship program with Allegan Area Educational and Technical Center to give socially and economically challenged students a chance to excel in the workforce while continuing their education and to earn higher wages.  

Perrigo’s commitment to its workers goes beyond training. As an essential business operating during COVID-19, Perrigo recognized their employees’ sacrifices by providing meals from local restaurants and monthly bonuses during a time of uncertainty.  

A Commitment to Community

Employer of the Year, Perrigo, at MiCareerquest
A student at MiCareerQuest speaks with an employee at Perrigo.

Perrigo is an active participant in many regional talent initiatives that educate youth and encourage them to explore manufacturing careers. Each year it partners with West Michigan Works! and regional employers and educators to host students during Discover Manufacturing Week and create interactive exhibits for MiCareerQuest. They have been a key partner in the development and coordination of the Allegan Area STEM Partnershipbusiness leaders and educators in Allegan County working to build talent in STEM occupations. Additionally, Perrigo partners with Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Junior Achievement to mentor local students. 

Recruiting a diverse workforce has been an ongoing priority for Perrigo. It has developed diversity and inclusion strategies to ensure inclusive leadership and celebrate the differences in race, gender, experience and more within their organization.