Deb Lyzenga is the Industry Engagement Division Administrator at the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity – Workforce Development. With 25 years of experience in workforce development, manufacturing, and education leadership, she leads statewide initiatives focused on Registered Apprenticeship, Sector Strategies, and Work-Based Learning. Deb works closely with employers, Workforce Boards, educators, and economic development partners to build talent pipelines that connect Michiganders with high-growth, high-wage careers.
A Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) Practitioner and Fellow with the U.S. Chamber Foundation, Deb began her TPM journey in West Michigan, creating employer-led collaboratives that expanded career awareness and Registered Apprenticeships in traditional and non-traditional fields. She holds a B.S. in Psychology from Oklahoma State University and an M.P.A. in Public and Government Policy from Grand Valley State University.
Deb is passionate about helping individuals and businesses thrive, finding the greatest reward in hearing employers say, “These are the best-trained workers we’ve ever had.”
Industries of Interest: Construction/Facilities, Human Resources, Manufacturing/Operations
Other Specialty Areas: Local/State Data Availability and Usage, Rural Settings, Partnerships with Local/State Government, Partnerships with Workforce Agencies, Partnerships with Unions, Partnership with Alternative Talent Sources, Inclusion of Small Business, Career and Technical Education Pathways, Youth Career Pathways