June 22, 2026
Detroit Future City Chief Strategy Officer Ashley Williams Clark joined WXYZ’s Spotlight on the News to discuss the future of education and workforce development in Michigan.
During the conversation, Williams Clark highlighted findings from Detroit Future City’s recent research on career-connected learning, emphasizing the importance of creating stronger pathways between education and employment for Detroit youth. She discussed the need for coordinated efforts among schools, employers, community organizations, and policymakers to ensure young people have access to meaningful career exploration, guidance, and work-based learning opportunities.
Williams Clark was joined by Laila Bell, Vice President of Learning & Impact at The Skillman Foundation, for a discussion on how Michigan can better prepare young people for long-term economic success. The program also featured Detroit historian Dr. Carolyn Haliburton Carter, who shared insights as communities prepare to commemorate America 250.
