Now What?

So, you're graduating...Now what?

  • Have a job lined up?
  • Starting a short-term training program?
  • Considering military service?
  • Heading off to college?

Or maybe you have no idea! That's ok. Everyone has their own journey. And we've put together some resources and support to assist with your transition from high school to the workforce.

Grand Rapids Community College Need 1:1 support with career exploration? The Academic Advising and Transfer center can assist with helping you make a plan. Here is a list of GRCC programs including short-term programs and for more information, click on “Prospective Students” selection in the left menu.
West MI Center for Arts & Technology Step Year is designed to help young adults ages 18-24 find a career or educational path that’s right for them. The tuition-free program is a unique mix of college and career exploration, self-discovery, and connections to employment pathways in a variety of sectors. Learn more here.
West MI Works! West Michigan Works! is part of the statewide Michigan Works! system and the workforce development agency in West Michigan that provides workforce solutions. They offer a wide variety of resources to help you kick off your career!
Grand Rapids Promise Zone If you are trying to figure out what’s next or need help taking the next step for what’s after high school, they’re here to help! Staff is available to assist eligible Promise Zone students throughout the summer and beyond. Contact them here. More...
High Tech Manufacturing Four-year college isn’t for everyone, and a bachelor’s degree doesn’t guarantee a job or the necessary skills. The MAT2 Apprenticeship Program provides students a three year career pathway to success as they alternate between classroom training and on-the-job, paid work experience. Innovative high-tech manufacturers and companies are looking for talent. Find out if MAT2 is right for you. More...
Kent ISD Job Board The Kent ISD Student Job Board is a FREE service to connect young people with local employers in West Michigan. Students, including recent graduates, from the Kent Career Tech Center, and all 20 Kent County school districts, are invited to check out these listings. The jobs on this site are intended to be entry-level positions that allow students the opportunity to showcase their existing skills, develop new skills and gain work experience that leads to further career opportunities. Click here to see what jobs might be of interest to you. More...
West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI) The West Michigan Construction Institute provides the training, knowledge, and national certification for students and adults to have a well-paid, high-demand, and meaningful career in commercial construction. Sign up for a 1:1 tour to explore your options, meet instructors and view the courses. More...

More Post-Graduation Opportunities and Resources

The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) has partnered with the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) and other statewide stakeholders to develop a post-graduation opportunities informational packet available on LEO’s Pathfinder resources page.

In addition, Kent ISD's Career Readiness Department has assembled a collection resources focused specifically on opportunities and resources available in West Michigan. See those resources here.

About Us More...
Calendars More...
Contact Staff More...
Employment More...
School News Network More...