According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Job Outlook 2025 survey, employers are placing an increasing emphasis on certain key skills when reviewing job applications. The skills that consistently rank as the most essential are problem-solving, the ability to work on a team and communication skills (particularly written communication).
Some of this can be taught in the classroom, but not all of it. GRCC’s FutureTech Careers program offers hands-on learning, career readiness workshops, industry mentorship and personalized career coaching — all designed to help students build the skills employers need today in the fields of advanced manufacturing, information technology and computer science.
Internships are an important work-based learning experience. They provide a valuable way for employers to vet potential employees and build a talent pipeline. They also help hone and reinforce the skills that employers are seeking in new hires.
GRCC just completed its second year of partnering with local companies to provide internship experiences through FutureTech Careers. John Rumery, program manager, notes that partnering with GRCC provides exceptional return on investment.
“Our sweet spot is small- to mid-size companies that don’t have the resources to create their own in-house talent development program,” Rumery said. “We can help the company develop a job description, set expectations, and then promote the opportunity to our FutureTech program participants.”
Grand Rapids Community CollegeWe offer learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college – and is focused on making a college education accessible and affordable. Classes are scheduled in person and online, on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties. GRCC faculty and staff are committed to helping students succeed inside and outside the classroom, with student support services including, academic and career counseling, occupational and disability support and tutoring. GRCC has an average class size of under 25 students, giving students access to faculty members who are among the best in their fields, many known nationally and internationally. The college offers traditional liberal arts and occupational pathways, adult education courses, and skilled training courses and apprenticeships. Thousands of students each year take advantage of the Michigan Transfer Agreement to continue their education at a four-year college or university.
