Ben Hoger is an experienced professional with a diverse background in employment services, hospitality, martial arts instruction, and journalism. Currently serving as the Internship and Resource Coordinator at the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research since September 2016, Ben develops community contacts to assist participants in achieving sustainable employment. Concurrently, Ben works as a Floorman (Bouncer)/Bar back at The Library Kitchen and Taphouse, ensuring a safe environment while supporting the service team. With experience as an Off-site Events Director and Trainer at Lightning Kicks Martial Arts since April 2010, Ben has organized events and trained in various martial arts disciplines. Prior roles include Vocational Trainer at MRC Industries, assisting adults with disabilities, and Skills Training Specialist at the WMU Center for Disability Services. Earlier career experience includes writing for the Kalamazoo Gazette, covering features and sports. Ben holds a degree in Journalism from Western Michigan University, earned between 2000 and 2005.
W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research
The Upjohn Institute is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit organization that provides research, practice and policy analysis on employment and unemployment issues. Our research focuses on labor market developments that threaten the livelihood and well-being of workers and the policies and programs designed to reduce those threats and mitigate hardships caused by job loss. We also house the Employment Management Services Division, the administrative entity for the local Workforce Development Board, administering all of the federal and state employment programs for southwest part of Michigan.