Building Detroit's Talent Pipeline Through Opportunity, Partnership, and Impact
Detroit is a city defined by resilience, innovation, and opportunity. For many residents, access to training, employment, and career advancement can be life-changing. As the fiscal and administrative for the Mayor’s Workforce Development Board, Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) helps make these opportunities available through Detroit at Work, the city's workforce development system.
Under the leadership of Terri Weems, Interim President of DESC and Special Advisor to the Mayor for Workforce, the organization works alongside employers, educators, community partners, and city leaders to expand access to workforce opportunities across Detroit.
The scale of this work is significant. Each year, the Detroit at Work system connects thousands of residents to employment opportunities, training programs, career services, and workforce resources. DESC’s approach is rooted in the understanding that workforce development is about creating pathways that support long-term career growth, economic mobility, and lasting success for individuals and families.
One of the most visible examples of this work is Grow Detroit's Young Talent (GDYT), a citywide summer employment initiative that has provided more than 87,000 work experiences to young people since its launch in 2015. Through paid work experiences, career exploration, and industry-focused learning opportunities, GDYT helps youth build skills, gain confidence, and explore future career pathways.
The impact of that investment can be seen in the story of Matthew Jackson. As a participant in the first GDYT JOURNi cohort, Matthew was introduced to software development and technology while still a student. Today, he holds a degree in Computer Science from Morehouse College, is pursuing a master’s degree in Applied Data Science at the University of Michigan, and has returned as a JOURNi Program Mentor to support the next generation of students.
DESC's impact extends beyond youth workforce development. Through initiatives such as Skills for Life, Detroit residents are gaining industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience that lead to meaningful career opportunities. One participant, Isaiah Magee-Robinson, earned multiple industry-recognized credentials, including NCCER Electrical Level 1 and OSHA 30, through the program before launching his own electrical and remodeling business, which now generates six figures annually.
For others, success is measured through stability and advancement. Shanetta Sloan came to Detroit at Work seeking employment while facing transportation challenges and supporting five children. With guidance from a career coach, resume assistance, and supportive services, she secured employment with Flex-N-Gate. Seven years later, she remains with the company and was recently promoted to a Team Lead position.
These stories reflect a broader workforce strategy focused on creating opportunities at every stage of an individual's career journey. Whether introducing young people to career pathways, helping adults earn credentials, supporting job seekers through barriers to employment, or connecting employers with talent, DESC works to ensure Detroit residents have access to the resources needed to succeed.
As a member of Midwest Urban Strategies, DESC collaborates with workforce organizations across the region to share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and advance innovative workforce solutions. The organization has participated in several MUS grant initiatives, including the U.S. Department of Labor Growth Opportunities program, which helps prepare justice-involved and impacted young adults for employment through work experience, supportive services, and career development. Through MUS, DESC continues to exchange ideas with peer organizations while contributing to regional workforce strategies that support workers, employers, and communities.
The stories of Matthew, Isaiah, and Shanetta reflect what is possible when workforce strategies are paired with opportunity, support, and strong partnerships. Through Detroit at Work, DESC continues to help Detroit residents pursue meaningful careers while strengthening the workforce that powers the city's future.
