Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership CEO Visits UM-Flint to Discuss Workforce Development Collaboration

Flint, MI – September 30, 2025 — The University of Michigan-Flint’s College of Innovation & Technology (CIT) was pleased to host Justin Horvath, President and CEO of the Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership (SEDP), for a strategic meeting focused on aligning regional economic development efforts with the evolving workforce needs of employers.

Horvath met with Dean Christopher Pearson, Dean of CIT; Paula Nas, Director of the University of Michigan-Flint Office of Economic Development; and David Merot, Director of the University of Michigan-Flint EDA University Center for Community & Economic Development. The group discussed collaborative strategies to strengthen workforce pipelines and build sustainable partnerships with regional industry leaders.

“This was a fantastic opportunity to align our shared mission of economic development and talent pipeline growth,” said Dean Christopher Pearson. “Strong partnerships with regional leaders like Justin Horvath and SEDP are critical as we continue building programs that equip students with the skills employers need today and tomorrow.”

The meeting highlighted the university’s commitment to providing students with access to cutting-edge academic and hands-on learning experiences in high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, engineering, and automation.

“Connecting with UM-Flint’s College of Innovation & Technology is essential to ensuring we meet the workforce challenges of today and tomorrow,” said Justin Horvath, CEO of SEDP. “By fostering partnerships between industry and education, we can build a stronger, more resilient regional economy.”

David Merot added:

“At the EDA University Center, we focus on integrating innovation, education, and economic development. Meetings like this are essential for ensuring our programs are responsive to the needs of our communities and local industries.”

The visit concluded with a tour of CIT’s facilities and discussion of future collaborative opportunities, including applied research partnerships, internship programs, and skills-based training initiatives that support economic growth throughout the region.