A new partnership between the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority and the Grand Rapids Chamber is opening doors for Promise Zone students to explore careers, connect with employers and prepare for the workforce.

Launched in January 2026, Career Pathways expands access to career exploration, employer engagement and workforce readiness resources designed to help students align their education with high-demand careers in West Michigan.

This initiative builds upon a longstanding partnership between the Grand Rapids Promise Zone and Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC), which became the first city-wide collaboration between public, public charter and private schools in Grand Rapids’ history. The Promise Zone Scholarship covers the cost of GRCC tuition, fees and textbooks.

Bridging the gap between education and careers

Career Pathways connects Promise Zone students with employers through small-group conversations, structured career readiness tools and ongoing support through experience. The goal is to remove barriers between students and employers while providing meaningful, high-quality opportunities to explore careers and build confidence.

“We are working to remove barriers between students and employers, creating high-quality experiences for career exploration,” said Jamell Hatchett, talent pipeline program manager at the Grand Rapids Chamber. “Career Pathways will provide support before, during and after each opportunity, ensuring every student feels seen, connected and prepared.”

Programming begins during the Winter 2026 semester and offers students clearer, more accessible pathways into high-demand fields.

How the partnership works

Through a collaborative, hands-on approach, students will gain real-world insight into careers such as:

• Health sciences
• Skilled trades
• Business
• Technology
• Hospitality

The Grand Raids Chamber will engage industry professionals to participate in employer conversations, site visits and mentoring, helping students better understand workplace expectations and career options. Students will also receive support with resumes, interview preparation and access to Chamber-supported talent development resources.

The Grand Rapids Promise Zone will lead student outreach, preparation and follow-up to ensure sustained engagement and meaningful outcomes.

“We are excited for the partnership and the opportunities it will provide our students to gain career insights, build connections and gain experiences that prepare them to enter the workforce,” said Ashlee Mishler, director of the Grand Rapids Promise Zone.

Building on strong educational partnerships

Promise Zone students who earn an associate degree at GRCC may also complete a bachelor’s degree at Ferris State University or Grand Valley State University through a new partnership that provides up to $7,000 per academic year at each university.

Since launching in 2020, more than 2,000 GRCC students have received support through the Promise Zone Scholarship. Enrollment has grown from 245 students in fall 2020 to nearly 800 students enrolled this fall.

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