Tech council welcomes two new members

TechPeople

Jan 19

Written By Staff

Casey Horner, Corewell Health
Photo courtesy of West Michigan Works!

West Michigan Tech Talent (WMTT), a regional industry talent council of West Michigan Works! focused on building and promoting a robust technology talent pipeline, has appointed two new members: Kristy Loughin-Vance, Assistant Principal at Kent Career Tech Center, and Casey Horner, Director, Office of the CIO at Corewell Health.

"Kristy and Casey each bring deep expertise and a strong commitment to building a more inclusive, connected and forward-thinking tech talent pipeline," said Virginia Berger, Industry Council Lead, West Michigan Tech Talent. "Their leadership in education and health care technology strengthens our council and helps ensure we're aligning industry needs with real-world career pathways for students and job seekers across West Michigan."

Loughin-Vance brings more than two decades of experience in education, with a focus on career readiness in information technology, cybersecurity, digital animation, and graphic communications. In her role at Kent Career Tech Center, she supports over 28 career and technical education programs serving more than 65 high schools across Kent County. Her leadership helps prepare students for high-demand careers by aligning hands-on learning with industry needs.

"I'm passionate about helping young people explore tech careers and find their path," said Loughin-Vance. "This role allows me to combine my professional experience and personal interest to support the next generation of tech talent in West Michigan."

As director of the CIO office at Corewell Health, Horner oversees the culture and talent strategy for Corewell's digital services department, including key programs such as internships, apprenticeships, onboarding and orientation. Her leadership ensures that the health system's digital workforce remains connected, supported and aligned with community talent development initiatives.

"Corewell Health has been a part of West Michigan Tech Talent for nearly a decade and I look forward to continuing to support our connection to the work of the council," said Horner. "My team owns most of our talent programs and benefits greatly from staying engaged within the community. Our shared purpose, values, and commitment to one another and our communities are core to everything we do."

Established in 2016, WMTT brings together technology employers, educators and workforce and economic development organizations to meet West Michigan's current and future technology talent needs. To learn more about West Michigan Tech Talent, visit www.westmichigantechtalent.com.

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