Unveiling Velocity's Summer Highlights

Velocity Team
Aug 4, 2025
3 min read

Welcome to the July edition of our blog! As we embrace the summer warmth, we're thrilled to bring you exciting updates and stories that highlight the vibrant community at Velocity. This month, we introduce you to our newest tenant, Scout HR, a company redefining talent acquisition and making waves in various sectors. You'll meet their inspiring leaders who drive their mission forward.

We also celebrate the remarkable achievements of our award-winning leaders, Paula Macpherson and Marc Alexander, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Michigan's business landscape. Their recognition in the 2025 MVP Awards is a testament to their dedication and vision.

In addition, we bring you the latest news on local business initiatives, including the expansion of Tombstone Brewery with the support of our Velocity grant and the launch of an innovative website service with the City of Sterling Heights to bolster local businesses.

Stay tuned for all this and more, as we continue to foster innovation, growth, and community spirit at Velocity. Enjoy the read and the summer ahead.

Introducing Our New Tenant: Scout HR

We are thrilled to welcome Scout HR to our thriving community at Velocity. As a company dedicated to revolutionizing the talent acquisition landscape, Scout HR stands as a beacon in the relentless war for talent. Founded with a commitment to ensuring the right people find the right seats, Scout HR has transformed organizations by meticulously aligning skills, aspirations, and cultural fit—guaranteeing lasting success for both employers and employees.

Our Mission and Impact

Scout HR excels in direct hire recruiting, contract staffing, and contingent workforce solutions, serving a diverse array of sectors, including manufacturing, aerospace & defense, government contracting, automotive, and technology. By partnering with employers, Scout HR doesn’t just fill positions; they solve business challenges through strategic human capital alignment. They are passionate about helping businesses grow while empowering job seekers to discover meaningful careers that align with their strengths and values.

Meet the Leaders

Jacob Canter, CEO

Jacob, the Co-Founder and CEO of Scout HR, is a seasoned business professional with a rich background in service, leadership, and community. His journey from Michigan State University to serving as a Master at Arms in the U.S. Navy, and then transitioning into the business world, showcases his dedication to protecting and advancing our nation's values. Jacob's leadership at Scout HR is driven by his passion for community service, veteran advocacy, and making work more fulfilling for everyone involved.

Alec Aretakis, Director of Client Strategy

Alec brings a unique blend of marketing and sales expertise to his role as Director of Client Strategy. He provides tailored recruiting solutions to companies in defense, manufacturing, and advanced industries, ensuring their talent needs are precisely met. Alec is instrumental in building the internal systems that fuel Scout HR’s growth, leveraging his skills to implement scalable processes and AI-integrated workflows.

Why Velocity?

Scout HR chose Velocity not just as a workspace but as a dynamic, collaborative community that champions innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth. Surrounded by like-minded founders and local leaders, Velocity’s vibrant energy fuels Scout HR’s mission to create meaningful impacts across Michigan and beyond.

We are proud to have Scout HR as part of our community and look forward to witnessing their continued success and contributions to our shared goals of growth and innovation.

Welcome to Velocity, Scout HR!

Scout HR

Paula Macpherson: Michigan’s Most Valuable Professional

We are delighted to announce that Paula Macpherson, the Executive Director of Velocity, has been honored as Michigan’s Most Valuable Professional in the 2025 MVP Awards by Corp! Magazine. Under her guidance, Velocity has thrived as a hub of entrepreneurial spirit and business excellence. Paula’s vision and commitment to making meaningful contributions not only to our organization but also to the wider Michigan business ecosystem is truly inspiring.

Marc Alexander: Most Valuable Entrepreneur

Congratulations to Marc Alexander, Founder and CEO of Lite Raise an Accelerator Client at Velocity, for being named this year’s Most Valuable Entrepreneur. Marc’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his innovative spirit and unwavering dedication to economic growth and sustainability. Through Lite Raise, Marc supports nonprofit leaders, drives community impact, and builds solutions that empower those often overlooked.

Award-Winning Chesterfield Township Microbrewery to Expand Distribution with Velocity Grant Support

Watch Interview

More About Tombstone Brewery

Tombstone Brewery, a family-owned microbrewery located at 47240 Jefferson Ave. in Chesterfield Township, is expanding its award-winning business with the help of a $5,000 grant from Velocity’s small business accelerator program.

City Biz Article

WWJ Interview

SHTV1

Sterling Heights and Velocity have partnered to launch SizeUp Sterling Heights, a free online tool that gives local businesses access to powerful market research and business intelligence.