Brandon Skopek
Chair, Early Career Outreach Committee
On Monday, February 26, the Early Career Outreach Committee (ECOC) convened for their first meeting of the year, boasting an impressive turnout with the following members in attendance:
- Andrew Hagge, Auburn Hills
- Mike Womack, Lapeer
- Tim Heiden, Peck
- Quentin Bishop, St. Clair
- Jim Lancaster, Milan
- Rachel Witherspoon, Milford
- Mike Hart, Fenton
- Devin Olson, Munising, MME Board Liaison
- Yvonne Ridge, Eaton Rapids
- Jenny James, Kent County
- Neil Rankin, Montrose
- Brady Selner, Shelby
- David Faber, Sandusky
- Ryan Madis, Ortonville
With a full agenda, the committee conducted a review of the 2021–2024 MME Board’s strategic plan. The committee’s discussions covered various topics, including:
- Organizing and executing spring and fall training sessions for the broader MME membership
- Collaborating with the Professional Development Committee to devise an educational session for the upcoming 2024 Summer Workshop in Marquette
- The initiation of a mentor/mentee program
- Exploring potential fundraising opportunities for 2024
- University liaison assignments
- Strategies for enhancing membership recruitment
In response to the extensive agenda and priorities, the ECOC established two subcommittees. The first subcommittee is tasked with planning the spring and fall training sessions, while the second is dedicated to orchestrating a 2024 Summer Workshop session in collaboration with the Professional Development Committee. The following members have been appointed to each subcommittee.
Spring & Fall Training Sessions Subcommittee:
- Quentin Bishop
- Mike Womack
- Yvonne Ridge
- Jenny James
2024 Summer Workshop Session Subcommittee:
- Brady Selner
- Rachel Witherspoon
- Jim Lancaster
The ECOC is committed to holding regular, bi-monthly meetings, with additional meetings scheduled as needed to address emerging priorities and tasks.
Brandon Skopek
Chair, Early Career Outreach Committee