Get involved today to strengthen the workforce of tomorrow!

Dedicated to enhancing our region's vitality, Kalamazoo RESA is taking a reinvigorated and cohesive approach to career and talent development in Kalamazoo County. We are strengthening the education-to-career pipeline by engaging employers to create a network of opportunity that equips a multi-generational workforce for success.

Kalamazoo RESA is laser-focused on helping employers connect with the next generation of talent to develop a highly trained, engaged and diverse workforce, supporting economic prosperity and opportunity for all.

From work-based learning and collaborative opportunities, to aligning K-12+ curriculum that meets the needs of employers and much more, there are a multitude of ways for employers to partner with Kalamazoo RESA to help the next generation of talent in Kalamazoo County become workforce-ready.

Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Kalamazoo RESA Career & Technical Education (CTE) equips K-12 students with the academic and technical skills, knowledge and training necessary to succeed in well-paying, high-demand careers.

• Direct engagement with the emerging workforce
• Align credential and certification opportunities with workforce needs
• Advisory Council   

Career Awareness & Exploration (CAE)

The elementary and middle school curriculum and experiences component of Kalamazoo RESA CTE, Career Awareness & Exploration (CAE) helps students see what they can be at an earlier age, while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of and teaching 21st Century job skills in the workplace.

• Engagement with young learners 
• Align K-8 curriculum with workforce needs and 21st Century job skills

Formerly known as Cooperative Education or co-op, Work-Based Learning is an opportunity for students to gain on-the-job experience and career skills in a mutually beneficial employer partnership.

• Direct access to qualified, skilled workers
• Potential for long-term employees
  
  

"Working with KRESA on the Work-Based Learning Program has been one of the best collaborations for the future of our business and it allows students to see into the world of manufacturing.

"The WBL program is a two-way street – with the help of the WBL Coordinators, XL Machine gives the students the opportunity to explore a great career and in return the students earn the opportunity for an apprenticeship when they graduate high school. At the very least, the students gain some excellent work experience they can use in the future. Along with the great work experience and career opportunities available, the students learn professionalism and accountability. The WBL Coordinators work with the students to prepare them for the working world, giving them a professional advantage over others who are not involved in the WBL program.

"XL Machine highly recommends any and all companies find where the WBL program fits with their needs and start bringing students in!" - XL Machine
 

Other KRESA employer engagement opportunities include: