Mark C. Perna

ESCANABA – Bay College will welcome nationally acclaimed speaker, author and workforce development expert Mark C. Perna for a presentation focused on unlocking the potential of today’s younger generation. The event is free to the community through the partnership and collaboration of MI Works and Bay College.

Perna will present “Unleashing Passion, Purpose, and Performance in Younger Generations” at both Bay College Escanaba and Iron Mountain locations:

• Monday, April 27 – Bay College Iron Mountain Campus, Fornetti Hall
 Refreshments: 3:30-4 p.m. (CST)
 Presentation: 4-5 p.m. (CST)

• Tuesday, April 28 – Bay College Escanaba Campus, Heirman University Center (Room 952)
 Refreshments: 7:30-8 a.m. (EST) 
Presentation: 8-9 a.m. (EST)

This session is designed for educators, employers, community leaders, parents and anyone invested in developing the future workforce. Perna will share innovative, research-based strategies to better connect with young people, inspire purpose, and guide them toward meaningful career pathways.

“As the skills gap continues to widen, it is critical that we better understand and engage the next generation to guide them in finding their potential” said Cindy Gallagher, Bay College vice president of Workforce Innovation & Strategic Partnerships. “Mark Perna brings a powerful message and practical tools that will benefit our entire community–from education to industry. If you are currently in the workplace supervising, hiring, or recruiting the younger generation, or if you are a parent navigating how to guide your son or daughter on career pathways, this event is a must.”

Perna, founder and CEO of TFS Results, is a leading voice in the national movement to align education with workforce needs. A frequent contributor to Forbes and author of the award-winning book “Answering Why,” he has delivered more than 80 keynotes annually across North America and has inspired audiences with his high-energy, solutions-focused approach.

His presentation emphasizes purpose-driven education and training, helping attendees:

• Understand how today’s young people think and make decisions

• Build stronger connections that motivate and inspire

• Turn untapped potential into meaningful action

• Strengthen workforce and community outcomes

This event is part of Bay College’s ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships between education, business, and community organizations while preparing students for success in an evolving workforce.