The Career Pathways program is an initiative of the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority and Grand Rapids Chamber and will provide engagement opportunities for students and give them opportunities to interact and experience in-demand careers.
Ferris State University is participating in the new Career Pathways partnership established between the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority and the Grand Rapids Chamber. This partnership has arisen within the existing Grand Rapids Promise Zone initiative, which was established in 2020 and provides students who reside in Grand Rapids and attend eligible high schools with scholarships to attend Grand Rapids Community College. The Career Pathways initiative will now expand the benefits for Promise Zone scholars, who, upon completing an associate degree at GRCC, can receive an additional scholarship to attend either Ferris State University or Grand Valley State University, and will be able to take part in career-focused support to prepare them for the region’s in-demand jobs.
According to an article on Ferris State University’s website, Jamell Hatchett, who serves as the talent pipeline program manager for the Grand Rapids Chamber, was quoted as saying of the Career Pathways initiative, “We are working to remove barriers between students and employers, creating high-quality experiences for career exploration. Career Pathways will provide support before, during and after each opportunity, ensuring every student feels seen, connected and prepared.”
The Career Pathways initiative will begin in January 2026. Promise Zone students will gain real-world experiences with local employers who hire for in-demand careers, like those within the fields of health sciences, the skilled trades, business, technology, and hospitality. The Grand Rapids Chamber will work with local businesses to set up opportunities for students to visit their sites, receive an inside look into what’s required in the industry, and network. The Chamber will also help Promise Zone students build their resumes and prepare for interviews.
The Promise Zone Authority will also be involved in the process, through outreach, preparation, and follow up with participants. Ashlee Mishler, director of the Promise Zone, said, “We are excited for the partnership and the opportunities it will provide our students to gain insights into careers, building connections, and experiences to ensure they’re prepared to enter the workforce.”
Promise Zone students who complete an associate degree at Grand Rapids Community College will be able to take their benefits further, with students now having access to an annual $7,000 scholarship to pursue bachelor degrees at either Ferris State University or Grand Valley State University. This new addition through the Career Pathways programming is on top of the previous Promise Zone benefits, which include free tuition, no fees, and free text books to earn an associate degree at Grand Rapids Community College for qualifying students.
In order to be eligible to become a Promise Zone scholar, students must live within the city of Grand Rapids and graduate from one of 25 participating high schools.
For more information about Ferris State University, visit the school’s website.