ESCANABA — Being privileged enough to live in God’s Country, we all had a lot to give thanks for over dinner last Thursday. Something I felt especially grateful for are the many excellent employers we have here in Delta County. In fact, when it comes to quality of employment opportunities we are home to some of the best in the entire Upper Peninsula and for that matter all of Michigan. From the need for skilled tradesmen and operators, service opportunities in our growing tourism industry, openings for experienced engineers and healthcare professionals; nearly everywhere you look there are possibilities for careers where anyone can earn a living they can be proud of while enjoying the exceptional quality of life in Delta County.

Now is the perfect time for a young professional to return home to Delta County after earning experience and perspective in an outside community. Now is the chance for a person with more experience to elevate their own potential by considering a career change to an industry where their skills are valuable. Now is the moment for a young person graduating high school to take advantage of the resources our community provide to present them a roadmap toward a lifelong career here in Delta County. Many available positions here require only attendance, a great attitude and an excitement to learn – traits Yoopers are known for!

Over the holiday season take time to consider the many opportunities available to you and your family in Delta County. Have a conversation with children who have moved away, ask them if they’ve considered returning home to a favorable cost of living, unmatchable natural beauty and family. Talk to your spouse about whether you’re really happy with your current job and if you could advance your earnings and happiness with the right training. Take time to think about your young child’s future and seek out the folks in the area who want to help them succeed in our community.

Delta County businesses are growing. Together, we can grow with them — and what’s better than that? Great employers, strong employees and a sweet life in Delta County.

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TJ Thomas is executive director of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance