10 frontline workers recognized for going above and beyond

EducationManufacturingPeopleFood & Drink

Feb 7

Photo Credit: Russ Climie / Tiberius Images

Amidst rising costs and inflation, 10 area frontline workers were celebrated with Beverly A. Drake Essential Service Awards from West Michigan Works!. Honorees were recognized at The Economic Club of Grand Rapids meeting on February 5 and presented with a $100 gift card. The Essential Service Awards recognize frontline workers who go above and beyond their daily responsibilities and display integrity, passion, and commitment.

2023 Essential Service Award honorees are:

Kristie Azzoli, Customer Experience Specialist, The Rapid ITP
Heidi Carpenter, Program Aide, Barry County Commission on Aging
Scott Kinyon, Cleaning, Aggressive Tooling, Inc.
Marolyn Lopez, Corporate Receptionist, Plascore
Kim Pitsch, Park Ranger, Allegan County
Derek Ryan, Courtesy Team Member, Meijer
Beatrice Salgado, Preschool Teacher, Early Learning Center
Denver Sincler, Beer Tender, Tantrick Brewing Co.
Maria Solis, Senior Quality Assurance Specialists, Trans-Matic
Darcie Wallace, Care Coordinator, Meals on Wheels Western Michigan

"While we have always valued the contributions of frontline workers, the current economic climate, marked by rising inflation and cost of living pressures, makes this year's Essential Service Awards even more pertinent," said Mark Bergsma, West Michigan Works! workforce development board member. "Honoring frontline workers' dedication and perseverance remains crucial as many continue to navigate uncertain economic waters while serving our community."

Essential Service Awards categories include administrative/office worker, cleaning/housekeeping/groundskeeping, childcare, food service, government, health care/elder care, hospitality, nonprofit, retail, skilled labor, and transportation.

To be eligible for an Essential Service Award, individuals must have at least two years of employment with their current company, hold a non-managerial position, and exhibit pride in their job, a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and effective time management. Winners are chosen by a committee of the West Michigan Works! Workforce Development Board.

West Michigan Works! provides a network of employment and training programs and services for employers, employees, and job seekers in Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, and Ottawa Counties. For more information, visit https://www.westmiworks.org.