Michigan WDI

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Michigan WDI Workforce Development Institute is a statewide workforce development organization.

Michigan State AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute (WDI) is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation established and operated to provide employment and training services to workers and economically disadvantaged residents in the State of Michigan. WDI has been operating workforce development programs since it was established in 1977 as the Labor Employment and Development (LEAD) Program and has continued to provide services under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA), the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA), the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), Work First, and Jobs, Education and Training (JET) to serve youth, adults, dislocated workers and welfare recipients. Michigan WDI has successfully operated major workforce development and economic development projects in Michigan for thirty-five (35) years.

10/22/2026

We’re still riding the momentum from this year’s Workers Gala — a night that lifted up former students, honored our partners, and reminded us what solidarity really looks like.

Today we’re celebrating Jay LaNew and Capital Area Michigan Works, recipients of a Workforce Solidarity Award for their unwavering commitment to the Michigan AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute.

Their partnership strengthens pathways, removes barriers, and builds a united front for Michigan’s workforce. This is what collaboration looks like — and why this year’s Gala meant so much.

Capital Area Michigan Works!

10/19/2026

We are still getting over how powerful this years Workers Gala was. From celebrating former students to acknowledging the amazing partners, this was a year to remember!

This year, collaborators met with our team for some event videos, and we are thrilled to be bringing them to you for this week. Access for All is made possible through strong partnerships with a united front!

First up is Consumers Energy, who have helped make our Jackson cohorts possible. Together we are removing barriers and bringing change to the city of Jackson.

Thank you!

10/16/2026

Please join us in congratulating Barton Malow Ironworker Apprentice Eziekiel Morgan for being named Michigan WDI's Apprentice of the Year!

Eziekiel, who worked on the Kalamazoo Event Center, was honored at Michigan WDI's annual Workers Gala on Friday, October 3.

📸: Eziekiel (left) with Barton Malow Workforce Development Manager Hernando Flowers (right) | Iron Workers Local 25

10/14/2026

We have a lot of Workers Gala highlights heading your way soon, but we couldn't think of a better way to kick things off than showing partners, awardees and staff all having a blast on our 360° machine!

Let's start the week off with some good news...Our first cohort in Ypsilanti spent last week building skills, making con...
10/12/2026

Let's start the week off with some good news...

Our first cohort in Ypsilanti spent last week building skills, making connections, and proving exactly why this work matters. Not only that, but every single one of them was picked up by Laborers Local 499!

They earned it, and now it's time to celebrate them. Through the sweat and grind comes a future, and now that future got a little brighter.

Michigan Laborers District Council LIUNA Training of Michigan

Fresh off their award at the Gala, Iafrate made sure to stop by to talk with our Ypsilanti Cohort as they continued cons...
10/07/2026

Fresh off their award at the Gala, Iafrate made sure to stop by to talk with our Ypsilanti Cohort as they continued construction in Detroit. We love having the incredible partners that consistently go above and beyond to encourage the next generation of skilled trades workers. Thank you!

Our Ypsilanti Cohort #1 is working hard, partnering with Urban Neighborhood Initiatives in Detroit to build a brighter ...
10/06/2026

Our Ypsilanti Cohort #1 is working hard, partnering with Urban Neighborhood Initiatives in Detroit to build a brighter future. More pics to come!

10/02/2026

Tonight, we join together with partners across the state of Michigan to celebrate workers and labor allies, complimented by gorgeous views, dinner and live entertainment.

We can't wait to see you there.

Say yah to da skilled trades, eh? We are so honored to have the Upper Peninsula Construction Council as a sponsor for th...
09/30/2026

Say yah to da skilled trades, eh?

We are so honored to have the Upper Peninsula Construction Council as a sponsor for this year's Workers Gala. A night filled with celebrating the best of skilled trades in Michigan would never feel whole without representation from the U.P.

Address

419 S Washington Square, Ste 300
Lansing, MI
48933

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+15173720784

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