The Lights Stay on Because of Them
The People Behind the Power
Every day, America runs on work most people never see.
It’s the engineer solving a problem before production slows. The technician keeping critical systems running. The skilled tradesperson building the infrastructure we depend on. The leaders bringing complex projects to life. Their work powers our homes, moves our vehicles, connects our world, and keeps industries moving forward. And while their contributions often happen behind the scenes, their impact is everywhere.
For 80 years, Talascend has connected the people behind America's progress with the work that moves it forward. From our roots in 1946 to the workforce solutions we deliver today, one belief has remained constant …
Born in America's Automotive Engine Room
In 1946, a small engineering firm called Modern Engineering opened its doors in Metro-Detroit in the heart of America's manufacturing corridor. The mission was straightforward: help automotive innovators bring new ideas to life through engineering, design, prototyping, and manufacturing support.
As American industry evolved, so did we. Our reach expanded beyond automotive, our capabilities grew, and our work began supporting the people and projects powering industries across the country.
That Detroit DNA never left us; it just expanded to locations across America and after 80 years, we still believe great work starts with great people, and that the right talent in the right seat changes everything.
From an Engineering Firm to a Nationwide Talent Engine Pipeline
As America's industries grew, so did our capabilities:
- 1946: Modern Engineering established our roots in engineering and American manufacturing.
- 2006: Modern Professional Services expanded our focus on technical staffing.
- 2008 and beyond: Our growth into additional technical recruiting and engineering businesses broadened our reach across energy, process industries, and large-scale engineering and construction projects.
- 2009: Those capabilities came together under one name: Talascend, inspired by the idea of talent ascending.
- 2011: Talascend expanded our commitment to veteran talent and veteran-owned business.
- 2026: We celebrate 80 years of industry roots, relationships, and powering America's workforce.
Through every chapter, one thing has remained constant: when the right people have the opportunity to do their best work, businesses and communities move forward. The name says it all. When talent rises, the businesses and communities around it rise too.
Where We're Headed: The Next Generation of American Industry
America's industries are evolving at an extraordinary pace. Energy systems are expanding and modernizing, from nuclear and conventional power to renewables and oil and gas. Data centers, rail, utilities, and telecommunications networks are growing. Manufacturing is becoming more advanced, and the automotive industry continues to transform.
Every one of these changes depends on people with the right skills, experience, and expertise.
That's where we come in.
We bring together specialized industry knowledge, experienced recruiting teams, and scalable talent solutions to help clients meet critical workforce needs, from a single specialized hire to large, complex project demands.
Trust isn't just a promise. It's earned through showing up, following through, and treating every placement, partnership, and opportunity with the attention it deserves.
Outcomes, Not Headcount
Eighty years in this industry have reinforced an important lesson: clients need more than people in seats. They need the right talent to help them deliver results.
That’s what we deliver, and it is backed by:
- A nationwide network of 1.2 million+ professionals across engineering, technical disciplines, and skilled trades.
- Flexible workforce capacity to support critical individual hires, specialized teams, and large-scale workforce demands.
- Deep industry expertise from recruiting professionals who understand the skills, environments, and challenges our clients face.
- Technology-enabled delivery designed to support efficient hiring and responsive workforce solutions.
- A people-first approach grounded in expertise, enthusiasm, integrity, and accountability.
Technology helps us move faster. Industry knowledge helps us make better connections. And the human relationships behind every placement make those connections count.
To Everyone Who Got Us Here: Thank You
To our employees, clients, and every candidate who's trusted us with their career: this milestone is yours. Eighty years in, our purpose hasn't changed. We propel work, businesses, and careers forward, one connection, one partnership, one placement at a time.
The technical talent that keeps America running deserves a partner who's in it for the long haul. Here's to the people behind America's progress, today and for generations to come.
Hiring for energy, infrastructure, or manufacturing? Or ready for your next big project? Let's talk.
Contact us for more information.
About Talascend
Talascend is a specialized talent solutions firm connecting engineering, technical, and skilled trades professionals with the companies building America’s infrastructure, energy systems, defense capabilities, and manufacturing base. With nearly 80 years of industry experience, Talascend serves clients nationwide from its headquarters in Troy, Michigan.