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Team 1 Plastics supports Local Work Force Development Programs

Several years ago, Team 1 Plastics, a plastic injection molding company for the automotive industry, recognized a need to attract and develop local talent. The company felt that the value of developing a regional workforce cannot be understated. To accomplish this goal, Team 1 has been active with two local programs. In March 2013, it began working with the Michigan Works Youth Program. Later that year, Team 1 became an inaugural member in the STEP (Skilled Trades & Engineering Partnership) Program in partnership with Marshall Public Schools (Marshall, Michigan). Each program has added tremendous value and will play a key role in the future of Team 1 Plastics.

The Michigan Works Youth Program “assists individuals, ages 14-24, who face significant barriers to success in the labor market,” according to its website. The organization provides resources and support to help them successfully transition into self-sufficient adulthood. Team 1 Plastics has been a partner by providing opportunities for youth involved in the program. Shortly after starting with the program, Team 1 hired three of the program’s participants. One of those participants has received two promotions and is now one of Team 1’s Assembly Captains.

The STEP Program with which Team 1 participates encourages young people to explore the opportunities that exist in manufacturing. The program, run through the Marshall High School, is available to all students who are sophomores through seniors. Interested students apply for STEP membership and must take at least one applied arts class in high school. After being accepted, they tour partner facilities, interview with the companies, and will ultimately receive job offers. The program offers benefits to both students and the companies. Students graduate from high school being career-minded and career-ready. They build a portfolio, practice interviews, and learn what it’s like to be in the workforce. Companies are able to make connections with students and share how they can help them reach their career goals.

Team 1 Plastics is thrilled with the positive results it has seen from both of these programs and is excited to continue being a part of both. The company sees them playing a critical part of its talent development and its goal to focus on “Team Member Success.”