Kelly Miller, talent specialist at the Big Rapids office of Michigan Works! West Central, goes out of her way to meet clients’ needs, develop relationships with vendors, community resources and coworkers, and seek out new ways to better assist people.  She has demonstrated flexibility in learning the intricacies of several programs and how they can benefit West Michigan communities.

To recognize her continuous efforts to advance the mission at Michigan Works! West Central, Miller is being selected as one of 16 winners from throughout Michigan for the annual Shining Star Award! Each year, the Michigan Works! Association recognizes one frontline staff person from each of the 16 Michigan Works! agencies across the state. These individuals are those who step up and go beyond their daily duties to make a difference in participants’ lives.

“Kelly is always so welcoming, helpful and takes on every new challenge with a smile,” said Shelly Keene, Michigan Works! West Central Executive Director. “She consistently shows concerns for our participants and their individual needs, as well as goes out of her way to make sure her coworkers are doing well and keeping up with their job duties. She is a natural caregiver. We’re proud to have her on our team!”

The Shining Star awards celebrate Michigan Works! frontline staff who, through dedication and outstanding contributions to workforce development, personify the Michigan Works! mission. The awards were presented at the association’s annual conference in Traverse City.  

“Hardworking frontline staff like Kelly are why Michigan’s workforce development system is so strong,” said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. “Her focus and commitment to helping job seekers and employers in our state is improving lives of Michiganders every day and that is why she is a Shining Star.”