Topic guide · Job seekers and employers
Michigan Works!
Michigan Works! is Michigan's network of public job centers: 16 regional agencies with more than 90 service centers that help job seekers find work and training, and help employers hire and train. Career help is free for anyone. If you qualify, Michigan Works! can also pay for job training through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Last checked: October 2026 against Michigan Works! and Michigan LEO.
What does Michigan Works! do for job seekers?
- Career assessments and one-on-one counseling
- Resume, interview and job search help
- Job fairs and hiring events
- Referrals to adult education, apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships
- Help with things that get in the way of training, like transportation or child care, depending on your region
It isn't only for people on unemployment. Anyone can walk in or call 1-800-285-9675.
Can Michigan Works! pay for training?
Yes, for people who qualify. Through WIOA, an Individual Training Account can pay for an approved training program listed on Michigan Training Connect, the state's list of eligible programs. Michigan Works! can also place you in on-the-job training, where an employer hires you and is reimbursed for part of your wages while you learn, or in a registered apprenticeship.
Who qualifies?
- Adults 18 and older who are U.S. citizens or eligible to work. Priority goes to veterans, people on public assistance, people with low incomes and people who need basic skills.
- Dislocated workers: people who were laid off or got a layoff notice, lost work when a plant closed, were self-employed or are displaced homemakers.
Sources: Michigan Works! Association · LEO, WIOA Adult · LEO, WIOA Dislocated Worker
Does Michigan Works! help young people?
Yes. The WIOA Youth program serves eligible young people ages 14 to 24 with paid work experience, summer jobs, tutoring and training. Many Michigan Works! agencies also run MiCareerQuest, hands-on career expos for high school students.
Source: LEO, WIOA Youth
What does Michigan Works! do for employers?
- On-the-job training reimbursement: typically up to 50% of a qualifying new hire's wages during training, set locally.
- Going PRO Talent Fund: state training grants, applied for through your local agency. Guide
- Registered apprenticeship help, hiring events and labor market data.
Common questions
Is Michigan Works! only for people on unemployment?
No. Career help, job search support and hiring events are free for anyone. Paid training through WIOA is for people who qualify, with priority for veterans, people with low incomes, people on public assistance and laid-off workers.
Source: Michigan Works! Association
How many Michigan Works! offices are there?
Sixteen regional Michigan Works! agencies run more than 90 service centers across the state. Call 1-800-285-9675 to find yours.
Source: Michigan Works! Association