Joshua Billington

Joshua Billington has a diverse work history spanning several industries. Joshua started their career in the United States Navy, where they achieved multiple promotions and excelled in their role as an Aviation Boatswain's Mate. After leaving the Navy, they joined National City Bank as a Financial Bank Analyst and later became a Sales Specialist. Joshua then transitioned to Five Star Real Estate, where they served as an Operations Manager, implementing a successful database program and overseeing IT support services. Joshua also gained experience as a Sales Operations Coordinator at Zondervan and as a Substitute Teacher at National Heritage Academies.

In 2009, Joshua founded their own business, Sozo Media Group, where they focused on building relationships with clients and connecting them with the appropriate individuals for projects. After successfully running their business for five years, they joined UP SBDC as a Senior Business Consultant, providing guidance on business plans, sales development, and international trade. Joshua worked in this role until 2020, when they joined Michigan Small Business Development Center as the Managing Director of Pandemic Response. In this position, they played a crucial role in leading the organization's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Joshua's most recent role is as the Assistant State Director – Innovation, Ops & Strategy at Michigan Small Business Development Center. In this position, they lead the platform management, cybersecurity, data analytics, and international trade team. Joshua collaborates with consultants and stakeholders to address platform needs and programming. Additionally, Joshua takes ownership of the "Innovative" value within the strategic house of the SBDC, ensuring that the programming and delivery methods remain relevant for the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Joshua Billington has a diverse education history. Joshua earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in Business Administration from Cornerstone University in 2008. Prior to that, they attended Dale Carnegie Training in 2003 and obtained a certificate in Effective Communications & Human Relations. In 1995, they completed their Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Business Administration from North Park University. Joshua also obtained a college prep diploma from Eustis High School in 1992.

In addition to their formal education, Joshua has obtained several certifications. In 2019, they earned the Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) certification from NASBITE International. In 2017, they completed the Real Estate Development Boot Camp offered by the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM). Lastly, in 2015, they became a Certified Business Consultant through the Michigan Small Business Development Center.