Stephanie Beckhorn named director of Workforce Development Agency

April 19, 2016 – Stephanie Beckhorn of Williamston has been named director of the state Workforce Development Agency (WDA). The announcement was made by Stephanie Comai, director of the Michigan Talent Investment Agency, which includes WDA.

Beckhorn has been serving as acting WDA director in addition to her duties as director of programs. She replaces Christine Quinn, who resigned in November 2015 to become regional administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor.

“Stephanie is a respected professional who has been instrumental in many of Michigan’s workforce development successes,” Comai said. “Her inclusive, results-oriented approach will be key in driving us forward as we meet the governor’s goal of developing a dynamic, nimble workforce system that prepares Michigan talent for the jobs of today and tomorrow. I have every confidence in Stephanie’s abilities and appreciate her willingness to accept the full-time leadership responsibilities of WDA.”

WDA supports the overall mission of the Talent Investment Agency by promoting an effective, flexible and innovative workforce system. It promotes a demand-driven workforce system, assists the structurally unemployed with financial independence, advocates for the integration of workforce development into the K-12 school system, and supports the alignment of workforce development with economic development efforts.

“Michigan is fortunate to have an extensive network of stakeholders that is committed to making our state a national leader in talent development,” Beckhorn said. “I look forward to enhancing our collaborative relationship with Michigan Works! agencies, our educational entities and other outstanding partners so residents in every corner of the state have the tools and opportunities to build successful careers.”

Beckhorn has 15 years of experience in workforce and economic development. In her most recent roles at WDA, she developed policies that align with and support the state’s key workforce development strategies. She worked directly with local, state and federal partners to implement key workforce and education programs, including the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Wagner-Peyser, Adult Education, the Trade Act, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), King-Chavez-Parks, Perkins, and the Skilled Trades Training Fund.

Beckhorn is a Certified Business Solutions Professional and a Michigan State University graduate. She and her husband Randal have two daughters.

Visit www.michigan.gov/tia for more information on the Talent Investment Agency and WDA.

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