Michael Fox Jr. has been named as the first Career Education Navigator, a position created as a result of the Marshall Plan for Talent grant that Lenawee Now was awarded in June 2019. The competitive funds are being used to create curriculum, certification programs, and pilot programs that are intended to engage students and educators in specialized training experiences with local businesses.
Fox earned degrees from both Adrian College and Siena Heights University. Michael has lived in Lenawee County for over 15 years working as a nontraditional educator in early childhood through college settings. Fox has been recognized for his leadership as a featured Lenawee Magazine Leader of Tomorrow and currently serves on the Goodwill Industries of SEMI Board of Directors and the Springbrook Middle School Parent Advisory Board.
“I’m excited to work directly with students, teachers, and employers through this new program,” said Fox. “I’m looking forward to helping students of all ages identify and pursue career pathways that best suit their passions and life.”
In collaboration with the local school districts, the Lenawee Intermediate School District, Adrian College, Jackson College, Siena Heights University, and employers, Career Education Navigators will help students acquire additional marketable and transferable skills that employers desire.
“Michael will be a valuable addition to our team. His diverse experience in education is ideal for this position,” said Jim Van Doren, Executive Director for Lenawee Now. “Our Career Education Navigators are instrumental in implementing the programs developed through this grant.”
Navigators will serve as a liaison between students, local administrators, counselors, teachers, families, and local businesses to increase awareness of needed workforce skills and support student career goals and job placement. Additional Career Navigator positions are currently available. To learn more, visit LenaweeNow.org/Blog.