The Right Place

05/21/2026

We are delighted to recognize and thank our new and renewing investors for their ongoing commitment to our mission.

Your investment supports strategic initiatives that advance economic growth and long-term prosperity throughout the Greater Grand Rapids region. We value your partnership and appreciate the trust you place in our organization.

Journey Group
Windemuller
Foresight Management
Franklin Partners LLC
Paragon D&E
Deloitte
City of Grandville, MI
Packaging Compliance Labs
Rehmann

05/19/2026

While many fishing accessories are sourced from China, Bloop Bead produces and sources everything in-house and within the United States. With Michigan being home to some of the best fisheries in the country, it has been an incredible place for them to start and grow their business.

To give back to the community, Bloop Bead has provided merchandise to several high school fishing teams. They are passionate about supporting the next generation of anglers.

Read the rest of their story here: https://f.mtr.cool/cgeplslzyx

05/13/2026

While Baking Company continues to advance through updated machinery and technology, their commitment to upskilling the workforce remains just as important.

Baking Co. is ensuring employees are trained to successfully operate new equipment and become qualified operators. This type of skills development helps employees build a stronger sense of ownership, confidence, and pride in the work they do.

Read the full story on our website:
https://f.mtr.cool/jnjfsfsqgs

05/13/2026

What does the future of talent in Greater Grand Rapids look like?

Dr. TaRita Johnson, SVP, Talent & Diversity shares five key highlights from The Right Place’s 2026 Talent Report, offering insight into the workforce trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping our region’s future.

From shifts in workforce demographics to the growing importance of AI readiness and upskilling, the report underscores the importance of investing in people, innovation, and long-term talent strategies to keep Greater Grand Rapids competitive.

Watch the video to hear Dr. Johnson’s top takeaways and explore the full 2026 Talent Report here: www.rightplace.org/talentreport

05/12/2026

As Greater Grand Rapids continues to evolve, so does the conversation around talent, workforce development, and the future of work.

We are grateful to Rapid Growth Media for highlighting insights from The Right Place’s 2026 Talent Report and helping elevate the important conversations shaping our region’s future.

One of the report’s strongest takeaways is that Greater Grand Rapids is entering this next chapter from a position of strength, with a workforce that is becoming “younger, more diverse, and increasingly well educated.”

The coverage also highlights the growing importance of upskilling as employers navigate emerging gaps in artificial intelligence, data science, and technical skills. As the nature of work continues to shift, investing in people, adaptability, and lifelong learning will remain critical to sustaining long-term regional growth.

Read the full article here:

The Right Place’s 2026 Talent Report outlines AI challenges, labor shifts, and strategies to attract, develop, and retain the regional workforce. The Right Place’s 2026 Talent Report outlines AI challenges, labor shifts, and strategies to attract, develop, and retain the regional workforce.

05/11/2026

What happens when an internship becomes the start of a long-term career in West Michigan?

Introducing the Intern Connect Podcast, a new companion series leading up to Intern Connect 2026 on June 10 at the Amway Grand in Grand Rapids.

Designed to support interns and emerging professionals, the podcast features conversations with young talent building their careers in West Michigan and offers valuable insight into what helps interns grow, stay, and succeed in the region.

Employers are encouraged to register their interns for Intern Connect 2026 and share this episode with their teams as they prepare for the event. Register here: https://web.cvent.com/event/0d82f112-dc83-41a6-b6d5-c8575bf77d01/register

In this episode, two former interns who are now full-time team members at The Right Place discuss how internships helped shape their career paths, the importance of professional connection and mentorship, and why West Michigan became the place they chose to build their futures.

Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G59XLMykmf8&list=PL0-HFJFPt4Rwu89r0xeS0qbVp9gDSh1u5

05/08/2026

What does it mean to truly lead?

Peter Hungerford, Vice President of Manufacturing Services at The Right Place, recently joined The Pivot Group Podcast to reflect on his 25 years in business and the perspectives that continues to guide his leadership today.

“The company has to earn the right every day to have employees.”

It’s a powerful reminder that leadership is a two-sided equation, built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to something bigger. Great organizations don’t just expect excellence; they create environments where people choose to give it.

Through decades of experience, Peter speaks to the importance of culture, accountability, and leading with intention; values that shape stronger teams and more resilient businesses.

We’re proud to see this perspective shared and the example it sets across our region.

Watch the full conversation: https://www.thepivotgroup.org/podcast/peter-hungerford-25-years-in-family-business

05/07/2026

Mark Kraus, Economic Development Director for Newaygo County, recently joined 760 WJR Focus with Paul W. Smith to highlight the momentum shaping the region.

He discussed the role of the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, key priorities in business and workforce development, and the collaborative efforts driving growth. Mark also underscored what makes Newaygo County a strong place to live, work, and invest, along with ongoing progress in housing and talent development.

We are proud to see Newaygo County’s leadership and impact recognized on a statewide platform.

Watch the segment here:

Focus with Paul W. Smith ~ May 5, 2026 ~ Broadcasting live from the Heritage Museum of Newaygo County🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out...

05/07/2026

At our recent Investor Exchange, The Right Place was proud to release the 2026 Talent Report, offering a timely look at the evolving talent landscape across Greater Grand Rapids.

This year’s findings highlight a region entering a new phase of workforce dynamics. Greater Grand Rapids continues to stand out with a younger, increasingly diverse, and more educated talent base, positioning the region competitively as employers adapt to changing labor market conditions.

At the same time, the report underscores a notable shift: the labor market has rebalanced, with more workers competing for fewer open roles, signaling a more complex hiring environment for both employers and job seekers.

We were honored to convene a distinguished panel to reflect on these insights and what they mean for our region’s future. Thank you to Bill Pink, PhD; Seth Bushouse; Jan Harrington-Davis; and Mike Marsiglia for sharing their perspectives. We also extend our appreciation to Bluewater Hayes for their sponsorship of this event.

The conversation was thoughtfully led by Dr. TaRita Johnson, Senior Vice President for Talent & Diversity at The Right Place, whose leadership continues to advance critical dialogue around talent and opportunity in our region.

To explore the full findings and insights from the 2026 Talent Report, visit: https://www.rightplacereport.org/talent-report

05/06/2026

Leadership is often best understood through the people who have lived it.

In this upcoming Candid Conversations session, Dr. TaRita Johnson will join Dr. Richard J. Pappas to discuss the lasting impact of his mentorship-driven approach to leadership.

On May 11, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, join us for a fireside chat exploring how intentional mentorship can unlock talent, strengthen teams, and shape the next generation of leaders.

Through this conversation, Dr. Pappas will offer practical insights drawn from decades of experience leading Davenport University, providing a candid look at what it takes to develop people and organizations in today’s evolving landscape.

Be part of a discussion grounded in real experience and focused on the future of talent. Register here: https://web.cvent.com/event/62f1ad2f-c6c0-4f7b-aa60-af8878f13d29/register