Author: KMF Infotech

HOLLAND, Mich.—Lakeshore Advantage today released a comprehensive report on the wants and needs of emerging workers in the Lakeshore region—a critical initiative aimed at helping the region’s business community attract and retain top talent. Research was conducted by the Frost Center for Data and Research at Hope College. The survey gathered insights from 216 emerging workers between the ages of 18 and 34 during late summer and early fall 2024.

 

These findings will be used to help guide the future strategic focus for Lakeshore Advantage’s efforts to attract and retain young professionals.

 

“As competition for talent intensifies, we must stay laser-focused on ensuring the Lakeshore region remains an attractive, viable option for emerging workers,” said Mandy Cooper, vice president of strategic initiatives at Lakeshore Advantage. “The fact that so many young adults would recommend living here and see themselves staying long-term is incredibly promising. Now is the time to tackle issues and secure the talent our businesses need today and in the future.”

 

The survey found that 66% of respondents say they would pick the Lakeshore region over any other location. If they can find the right job and housing, they want to stay here. Additionally, the report pointed to several key positive attributes related to living and working in the area including:

 

• Access to Lake Michigan
• Outdoor recreation
• Living close to family
• A sense of safety

 

Participants also shared constructive feedback:

 

Affordability and Compensation: Respondents rated local salary/benefits 3.24 out of 5.0, while cost of living earned only 2.78 out of 5.0. Fewer than one-fifth consider the region “affordable”.

 

Inclusivity and Advancement: Only about half of respondents said they feel the Lakeshore region is inclusive, and fewer than half see ample opportunities for career advancement or professional networking.

 

“As a young professional, I want to build my career in a place that offers both opportunity and a great quality of life,” said Noah Walters, journeyman eyelet tool and die maker at Trans-Matic. “It’s encouraging to see a focus on talent retention and community investments that make it easier for people like me to stay and grow here.”

 

As a next step, Lakeshore Advantage plans to actively promote the region’s high-demand career opportunities and engage a diverse group of emerging talent to guide its strategic initiatives. The organization will connect local employers with key resources and forge partnerships with educational institutions and government leaders to create vibrant, supportive communities. These efforts are designed to strengthen the talent pipeline, ensuring a skilled workforce is ready to meet the region’s future needs.

 

Read the complete Lakeshore Advantage: Emerging Worker Survey Report for additional data and insights.

 

About Lakeshore Advantage:

 

Lakeshore Advantage is the nonprofit economic development organization serving Allegan and Ottawa Counties in West Michigan. Since 2003, it has supported the growth of primary employers—ranging from startups to global corporations—by solving economic challenges and fostering long-term regional prosperity. Last year, Lakeshore Advantage facilitated $243.9 million in private sector investments, secured $44.7 million in support funds, and helped create or retain over 550 jobs. Learn more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.

Manufacturing Leader Jon DeWys and Attorney Jack Marquis to be Honored

 

HOLLAND, Mich. | Feb. 3, 2025 – Lakeshore Advantage announces two prestigious awards for business leaders in Ottawa and Allegan counties. The Visionary Award will recognize Jon DeWys, CEO and co-owner of DeWys Metal Solutions and the Standing Ovation Award will honor the late John “Jack” Richard Marquis, a distinguished attorney and founding chair of the organization. Both awards will be presented at Lakeshore Advantage’s Annual Meeting on February 20 at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville beginning at 3 pm.

 

Visionary Award: Jon DeWys

 

Jon DeWys, CEO and co-owner of DeWys Metal Solutions, is being recognized for his outstanding leadership and business acumen. His family-owned manufacturing company, located in Marne, employs over 300 team members in West Michigan. With a passion for education, Jon drove the launch of an extensive employee training program, DeWys University. The employer-led program provides hands-on training and education opportunities in the technical space to new and current team members who wish to expand their skills in manufacturing.

 

The Visionary Award, to be presented by Fifth Third Bank, recognizes business leaders in West Michigan’s Lakeshore region who demonstrate exceptional vision, community engagement, and far-reaching positive impact. Previous recipients include Leslie Brown of Metal Flow, Dick Haworth of Haworth, and Jim Brooks of Brooks Capital Management.

 

Standing Ovation Award: John “Jack” Richard Marquis

 

John “Jack” Richard Marquis (May 17, 1943 – February 25, 2024) was a distinguished attorney and dedicated community leader in Holland, Michigan. Throughout his legal career, Jack practiced health, business, real estate, and tax law, and served as the attorney for Holland Hospital for over 45 years. Jack was deeply committed to civic engagement and economic development, playing a crucial role as founding chair of Lakeshore Advantage.

 

The Standing Ovation Award celebrates Jack’s selfless work and lasting legacy of service, leadership, and community dedication.

 

“Jon and Jack represent the very best of our region’s leadership. Their innovative thinking and commitment to community exemplify the spirit of collaboration that drives our region’s economic success,” remarked Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “These awards celebrate not just individual achievements, but the collective potential of our communities. We are proud to honor their remarkable contributions.”

 

Nearly 300 business and community leaders are expected to attended Lakeshore Advantage’s annual meeting. This event brings together senior-level business leaders, the organization’s investor network, and key partner organizations to report on economic growth projects and key milestones. For information or to register to attend visit: https://lakeshoreadvantage.com/events/.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photos: Jon DeWys (left), Jack Marquis (right)

 

 

About Lakeshore Advantage

 

Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan’s Allegan and Ottawa Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health, solves economic challenges, and identifies opportunities. Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist primary employers—from startups to established global corporations—as they navigate growth in the Lakeshore region. Learn more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.

 

Business expansion activity in Allegan and Ottawa counties results in $243.9 million private investment and $44.7 million in support funds leveraged

 

 

HOLLAND, Mich., January 27, 2025 – Lakeshore Advantage, the non-profit economic development organization that helps primary employers grow in Allegan and Ottawa counties supported 16 business expansion projects in the two-county Lakeshore region last year. The 16 projects represent $243.9 million in private investment and the creation or retention of over 550 jobs in Ottawa and Allegan counties.

 

“Our region continues to demonstrate economic resilience and sustained growth,” said Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “The 2024 report showcases the continued confidence businesses have in our region. Each expansion represents a vote of confidence in our region’s workforce, infrastructure, and economic landscape.”

 

The 2024 report highlights business growth and several regional economic successes:

 

(1)  A diverse range of businesses choosing to expand or invest in the region.

 

(2)  Construction and opening of an innovation center in downtown Holland – The Next Center.  This 20,000 square foot class-A office building serves as home to more than 30 incubating startups and Lakeshore Advantage headquarters.  It is also a showcase for world-class furnishings from local manufacturers including MillerKnoll, Haworth, ROL, and Light Corporation.

 

(3)  Sixty-seven product and technology startups were supported by Lakeshore Advantage’s SURGE program last year.

 

(4)  More than $44.7 million in business support funds leveraged for area employers to support employer expansions, worker training, export support and new technologies.

 

(5) In-depth research and analysis report was conducted on the West Michigan Advanced Energy Storage ecosystem, showing the region’s growing AES industry cluster.

 

(6)  Research and outreach was conducted with more than 200 participants to understand the wants and needs of the region’s emerging workers.

 

 

One key expansion project in 2024 includes Profielnorm USA, LLC, subsidiary of Profielnorm B.V., a Netherlands-based mezzanine flooring specialist. The company is constructing its first U.S. manufacturing facility in a newly created industrial park in the City of Plainwell where it plans to produce its U.S.-destined mezzanines and continue growing its North American market share. The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of up to $7.5 million and create approximately 30 jobs.

 

The Lakeshore region is also a hub for emerging technologies and home-grown companies like Jolt Energy Storage Technologies. The company raised $4M in its Series A round to advance the development and scaling of its organic flow battery, an innovative, all-organic design that offers a sustainable alternative to traditional energy storage by eliminating reliance on mined metals and reducing environmental and supply chain risks. This is one of many Lakeshore region entrepreneurship success stories in 2024.

 

“Last year’s progress and steady growth allows us to thoughtfully build upon the big gains our region has experienced,” said Amanda Murray, vice president of business solutions at Lakeshore Advantage. “As an economic development organization, we know that bold expansion opportunities and thoughtful, coordinated growth are key to economic health.”

 

View the full report HERE.

 

 

About Lakeshore Advantage

Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan’s Allegan and Ottawa Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health and solves economic challenges. Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist businesses at the base of the region’s economy—from startups to established global corporations—as they navigate growth in the Lakeshore region. Learn more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.