Why Greater Grand Rapids
Talent
Greater Grand Rapids is a thriving regional economy with access to a robust talent pipeline. The region is home to more than 20 colleges and universities, and its workforce is comprised of motivated, innovative and highly skilled professionals.
The Right Place works closely with our strategic partner, Hello West Michigan, to make it easy for area companies to connect with top talent. Hello West Michigan serves as a single source for accessing, attracting, and retaining talent in West Michigan. By leveraging their expertise alongside your talent recruitment efforts, the result is a winning talent strategy across the board.
Contact our Talent Team for more information
Dr. TaRita D. Johnson
Senior Vice President, Talent & DiversityDr. TaRita Johnson, Senior Vice President of Talent and Diversity at The Right Place, is a bridge builder connecting employers, educational institutions, community organizations, workforce development partners, and the State of Michigan. She leads a team responsible for developing strategies in talent attraction, sourcing/recruiting, development, and retention, linking regional employers, educators, and community-based organizations to strengthen the workforce pipeline.
Full Bio
Dr. TaRita D. Johnson
Senior Vice President, Talent & DiversityDr. TaRita Johnson, Senior Vice President of Talent and Diversity at The Right Place, is a bridge builder connecting employers, educational institutions, community organizations, workforce development partners, and the State of Michigan. She leads a team responsible for developing strategies in talent attraction, sourcing/recruiting, development, and retention, linking regional employers, educators, and community-based organizations to strengthen the workforce pipeline.
Regional Education Data
View the most recent data on higher education in the Greater Grand Rapids region, including college enrollment numbers, top degrees by field and educational attainment rates.
Regional Workforce Data
View the most recent data on Greater Grand Rapids' regional workforce, including top occupation groups, average wages, union membership and more.
Demographics Data
View the most recent data on Greater Grand Rapids' demographic makeup.
Innovative Internships with Michigan STEM Forward
Ann Arbor SPARK and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) have launched Michigan STEM Forward, a statewide program that matches students attending Michigan colleges and universities with internship opportunities at the state’s leading innovative companies.
Become a Hello West Michigan member company
Rachel Gray
Executive Director, Hello West MichiganAs the Executive Director for Hello West Michigan, Rachel leads the organization’s strategy, operations, and membership. She helps educate employers and prospective candidates about the region.
Full Bio
Rachel Gray
Executive Director, Hello West MichiganAs the Executive Director for Hello West Michigan, Rachel leads the organization’s strategy, operations, and membership. She helps educate employers and prospective candidates about the region.
Upcoming Talent Events
Talent Learning Lab | August 26, 2025
Solving the Leadership Gap
Talent Learning Lab | October 7, 2025
Promoting from Within through a Skills-Based Hiring Approach
Talent Learning Lab | November 4, 2025
Workplace Success: Creating a Culture that Retains Top Talent