Gretchen Swanson Joins 20Fathoms as Director of Workforce Development

20Fathoms is pleased to announce that Gretchen Swanson has joined the organization as Director of Workforce Development. In this role, Gretchen will manage the growth and expansion of 20Fathoms’ workforce development and tech education initiatives to address the region’s critical need for qualified tech professionals.

Tech professionals like software developers are some of the most in-demand professionals in the United States. However, businesses in rural areas like Traverse City often find it difficult to hire enough qualified tech professionals locally due to a limited talent pool – a challenge that can stifle business growth. Gretchen will be working directly with local employers and partners throughout the region to address this challenge and increase access to high-quality, local tech careers.

“I am thrilled that Gretchen has joined 20Fathoms and will be leading the effort to advance tech careers in the Grand Traverse Region,” said Eric Roberts, Executive Director of 20Fathoms. “She specializes in working with growing organizations and brings a strong background in workforce development, human resources, and community collaboration.”

Gretchen is a long-time a champion of innovative workforce development partnerships in the Grand Traverse Region. She has supported entrepreneurs and growing organizations as a Business Consultant with Michigan Small Business Development Center and most recently through independent consulting where she specialized in technology integration and talent development. Previously, she served as Director of Human Resources with Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa and during her tenure the organization earned recognition for new workplace wellness and workforce development initiatives. Gretchen is a senior certificated human resources professional (SPHR and SHRM-SCP) with a Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University.

In November 2021, 20Fathoms announced that the organization was selected to receive a $250,000 grant from the Michigan Industry Cluster Approach 3.0 (MICA 3.0) awarded by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Workforce Development (LEO-WD). These funds support the expansion of workforce development initiatives at 20Fathoms and will build upon the success of the organization’s prior educational programming for software developers and cybersecurity professionals.

“Momentum is building at 20Fathoms,” said Eric. “Through our successful programming to date, strong community partnerships, support from regional and statewide leaders, and our talented team members like Gretchen, we are well-poised for even greater impact.”