OAKLAND COUNTY, Michigan – Will Owens appears “Worry Free” these days.
CEO of Worry-Free Transportation in Waterford, MI, Owens was one of four panelists headlining a recent “Lunch and Learn” business program co-hosted by Oakland Community College’s economic and workforce development department and Financial Executives International (FEI) Detroit.
“My greatest development as a leader is understanding the importance of working on my business versus working in my business,” Owens said.
Owens is an alumnus of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program. He was joined on the panel by fellow 10KSB program alumni and local entrepreneurs Nicole Franey, owner, Holy Cannoli in Rochester and Berkley; Cathy Koch, owner, K-Tech Systems in Ferndale; and Talisa Norton, owner, All Pro Color in Oak Park. They shared business insights and success stories following graduation from the southeast Michigan program.
“My business partner and I realized we reached a business plateau based on our current business knowledge and education,” Owens said. “A few weeks later, I attended a Goldman Sachs 10KSB program presentation and immediately concluded I must be a part of this great opportunity. The program provided peer-to-peer learning, next level practical skills, current business methodologies, and building important networks to grow our business. I’m happy to report we’re seeing the results of this program taking us to the next level.”
Nearly 100 business professionals interested in taking their business to the next level gathered at Oakland Community College’s Auburn Hills campus to hear the panel of successful owners for ideas and inspiration.
Goldman Sachs launched 10,000 Small Businesses in Detroit and Southeast Michigan in November 2013 by committing $20 million for small-business loans, business education and grants for supporting community partners. The program is offered in partnership with Oakland Community College, Macomb Community College and Wayne State University. The curriculum covers accounting, human resources, negotiation, and marketing, among other topics and improved access to funding and capital.
“At the suggestion of a friend and colleague, I made time to attend OCC’s professional Lunch & Learn program, hearing it was a good networking opportunity,” said Susan Vitale, Inkwell Screen Printing and Embroidery. “This is an entirely different program.”
For more information on OCC’s economic and workforce development programs, visit oaklandcc.edu/wfdev or call (248) 232-4000.
About OCC - With multi campus system in Oakland County, OCC is Michigan’s number one transfer institution, offering nearly 100 excellent degrees and certificates. The College empowers academic and developmental experiences, allowing students to reach their full potential and enhance the communities they serve. More than a million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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Media Contact: Marketing & Community Relations | (248) 341-2020 | contactus@oaklandcc.edu