Traverse Connect and Michigan’s Creative Coast are pleased to welcome jobseekers from outside the Grand Traverse region to be featured as VIP guests and receive complimentary tickets to the upcoming Fresh Coast Quarterly Club on November 1 and Annual Economic Summit on November 4. These ‘Northern Explorers’ will have the opportunity to learn about what relocation to the Traverse City area looks like and to connect with over 600 business leaders, residents, and local stakeholders during a long weekend of personal and professional networking. Learn more about the Northern Explorers below.
We would like to extend a special thank you for our partners at Global Detroit for helping us provide this opportunity to explore jobs in the Grand Traverse region to their international students earning their degrees in Michigan. Employers, Global Detroit also provides support services to help you through the hiring process.
If you would like an introduction to a Northern Explorer, please email abby.baudry@traverseconnect.com.
Aditya Dube RESUME
I am a data scientist with a Master’s in Data Science from Grand Valley State University and a passion for using data to solve real-world challenges. I’m eager to relocate to the Grand Traverse region because of its vibrant community, natural beauty, and opportunities in tech and analytics. The region offers a blend of professional growth and a high quality of life, which is important to me as I continue building my career. What sets me apart is my strong background in data analysis, machine learning, and healthcare analytics, as well as my adaptability to new challenges. I thrive in environments where I can apply my skills to drive meaningful results, and I’m excited about the chance to collaborate with local businesses and organizations to make a difference.
In addition to my technical expertise, I’m committed to being an active member of the community, both professionally and personally. I look forward to building connections, contributing to innovative projects, and becoming part of the unique culture in the Grand Traverse region.
Amaan Tezabwala RESUME
I’m a highly motivated finance major and student-athlete at Northwood University. My academic journey has been defined by an unwavering commitment to mastering the complexities of finance, with a clear goal of maintaining a GPA of 3.9 or higher. In parallel, my role on the Northwood men’s tennis team has instilled in me critical skills like discipline, teamwork, and effective time management. These attributes, honed in the realm of sports, are equally applicable in the corporate world.
I’m passionate about finance and aspire to explore diverse avenues within the field, including financial analysis, corporate finance, and financial advising. As I transition into the professional sphere, I’m actively pursuing internship and job opportunities to apply my knowledge in practical scenarios. Furthermore, I understand the power of networking and am enthusiastic about connecting with like-minded professionals to gain insights and learn from diverse perspectives. I look forward to building meaningful connections and making a positive impact in the world of finance.
Chris Ryan
Hey all! I’m Chris Ryan, and I’m the owner & chief strategist of Kismet MKTG, a boutique marketing agency with an emphasis on all things digital, content, & digital content. I’m from northern Michigan – Gaylord, to be specific! – but I currently reside in Denver, Colorado. I’ve traveled back to Traverse City to be the host of the Comedy Night at Up North Pride a few times and I’ve always been (pleasantly) surprised by the welcoming and entrepreneurial community that I see growing.
I’ve been throwing around the idea of moving back to northern Michigan (gasp!), specifically Traverse City, to both plant roots, but also expand my clientele at Kismet MKTG. I’d love to connect with fellow business owners and entrepreneurs who are looking to grow their business and increase profits. Let me help YOU! Need help with social media content creation? We’ve gotchu. SEO not feeling very optimized? Let us take a look. Simply need an extra marketing hand? Kismet may just be the perfect fit!
Claudia Dempsey RESUME
My name is Claudia Dempsey, and I am a current graduate from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, with a concentration on graphic design. While I mostly focused on design while I was in school, I am also an illustrator and a painter. I have lived in Michigan my whole life, and I have spent many summers in Northern Michigan. It has always been my favorite place to visit, and after I graduated, I started looking into getting a job in the Grand Traverse area. It has a perfect mix of city and nature, and I would love to become part of the community there. Everyone who I have spoken to that has lived in the area always seems to love it. And as someone who loves cold winters, I’m sure I would love Northern Michigan!
Grace Carlisle RESUME
I’ve wanted to move to the TC area for years, but even more so in the past few as my husband and I spend more and more time there. Growing up we had a cottage in Ellsworth, so we spent summers there, swimming in Lake Michigan, hiking the dunes, enjoying the outdoors, and the winter’s sledding at the cottage and snowboarding at Nub’s. Now, my husband and I are in TC and northern MI as often as possible – biking, running, paddle boarding, kayaking, etc. We’re ready to make the move closer to all of our favorite things.
To future employers and community members, I’d just like them to know that I’m a self- driven hard worker, a problem- solver, and will always come with a positive attitude!
Indira Mallela RESUME
Motivated professional with valuable experience in treasury, payments, financial analysis, planning, budgeting, business writing, presentation development and project management in the banking and financial industry with excellent problem solving and analytical skills. Proven track record in providing strategic insights and management information to aid senior executives in decision-making, built capacity of staff, worked on long-term/short-term assignments in multiple countries (India, Bhutan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Kyrgyzstan). As a certified project manager recognized for excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize tasks. Being the convenor of ALM (Asset Liability Management Committee) and Investment Committee, I contributed to business growth and transformation by providing timely information to management and other key stakeholders. Well versed with high quality SQL queries. Familiar with Agile methodologies. Volunteered for IRS in their VITA program (Volunteer – Income Tax Assistance.)
Kate Gille RESUME
I am a Michigan native, Michigan State University grad, and former park ranger at Sleeping Bear Dunes. During my short time living in Empire, MI, I fell in love with Traverse City and the surrounding area. I left to follow a career opportunity in Cincinnati, OH, and while I have been successful here, I’m ready to move back to my home state with my husband. One thing I am searching for is to commit my award-winning talents in marketing and communications to a mission-driven organization. This could be a business that gives back to the community, or a nonprofit focused on the environment. I pour my heart and soul into my work and am seeking a role where I know I can make a positive impact.
Maureen Mukuta Muthengi RESUME
Maureen Muthengi, currently based in Allendale, MI, I’m eager to relocate to the Grand Traverse region. My decision to move stems from a strong appreciation for the area’s quality of life and its vibrant community. With a background rooted in data science, public policy, and information technology, I bring a wealth of experience to the table. I have a Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics from Grand Valley State University, Master in Public Policy and Management from Strathmore and a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. I have over a decade of experience at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), where I excelled in data analysis, project management, and policy development. I’m also the founder of the Donate a Pad Initiative in Kenya, demonstrating commitment to social impact. My skills in data visualization, data analysis, public policy and project management, combined with active volunteer work and international recognition, makes me a valuable asset to the Grand Traverse community. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise and engage with local initiatives.
Robin Watterworth RESUME
I grew up in Grand Rapids, but have always missed my lake. I love the Grand Traverse area, and want to move back to experience all the good things Michigan has to offer. At LastPass, collaboration with vendors and cross-departmental teams underpins our strategic marketing initiatives. Our mission to boost Marketing Qualified Leads (MQLs) hinges on aligning with business objectives and leveraging my expertise in digital marketing analytics and paid social media. With Kroboth Consulting, we’ve crafted marketing strategies that resonate with diverse audiences, both B2B and B2C. The team has thrived by executing programmatic campaigns, A/B testing, and providing in-depth reporting, all spearheaded by a commitment to continuous optimization and client success.
Thank you as well to the Presenting Sponsor of the 2024 Northern Explorers program, Northwestern Michigan College, for helping us host this year’s program. Thank you as well to the Supporting Sponsor Michigan Economic Development Corporation for providing support to help the Explorers travel to town for the weekend.
