Let’s face it — HR is filled with repetitive tasks that drain your time and energy. Résumé reviews, handbook questions, data entry, onboarding checklists… the list goes on. What if you could automate those instantly and get back to what matters most?
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We’re thrilled to share that WSI has been recognized once again as one of the Best & Brightest Companies to Work For – both in West Michigan and nationwide – for the 10th year in a row.
This recognition isn’t just about longevity. It’s about consistency, leadership, and the meaningful ways we invest in our people and our culture. Each year, the Best and Brightest program identifies organizations that go above and beyond in their employment practices, employee engagement, and commitment to community.
To be considered, companies are evaluated on key factors like:
Leadership, Strategy & Performance
Community Initiatives & Corporate Responsibility
Recruitment & Talent Development
Work-Life Blend & Employee Well-Being
This year, WSI achieved a 95% response rate on the employee engagement survey—a clear sign that our people are not just present, but actively invested in shaping who we are.
But what truly sets this recognition apart is its depth. The evaluation includes detailed benchmarking, comparative reports, and insight-sharing opportunities that allow companies to keep learning and growing. For us, it’s a validation of everything we believe in: strong teams, shared values, and meaningful work.
At WSI, our mission has always been to connect great people with great companies. This award reminds us that how we do that – through trust, care, and excellence – matters just as much as the results.
Here’s to 10 years of recognition, and many more of impact.
Last week, WSI had an exciting opportunity to share our involvement in the ever-evolving AI landscape with Kirk Mason, the morning anchor at WWMT Newschannel 3. As AI continues to shape industries and redefine workflows, we were thrilled to showcase how WSI is not only embracing this technology but also actively dispelling common misconceptions about its impact on jobs.
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Paychecks matter, but true employee appreciation goes beyond money. This Employee Appreciation Day, show your team they’re valued every day.
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At Workforce Strategies Inc. (WSI), we believe that a workplace thrives when its people do. We are honored to be recognized in the Wall Street Journal on February 19, 2025, as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in the Nation.
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Have you ever wondered what AI could actually do for you in your day-to-day? We hear about AI all the time, but the real value lies in knowing how to use it to make work easier, faster, and even a bit more creative. If you’re ready to explore AI’s true potential, join us for our upcoming session “AI-Powered HR: The Future of Hiring, Retention & Workforce Management”
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Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act mandates paid sick leave for nearly all employees. Employers, prepare now or risk costly non-compliance.
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In Michigan’s manufacturing world, one thing is clear: skilled workers are the lifeblood of the industry. Yet, businesses across the state are struggling to find talent that matches their needs. Enter the Going PRO Talent Fund—a program designed to help employers not just survive, but thrive, by filling these skill gaps with purpose and precision.
The Skills Gap Crisis
Michigan is poised to see over 520,000 jobs in the professional trades by 2030, yet the talent pool isn’t keeping pace. Many businesses are forced to navigate this ever-widening gap, leaving their productivity and innovation in limbo. Employers need workers who can hit the ground running, equipped with industry-recognized credentials and in-demand skills.
And while the hunt for skilled talent can feel like chasing a unicorn, the Going PRO Talent Fund offers a lifeline.
What is the Going PRO Talent Fund?
Since 2014, the Going PRO Talent Fund has been the state’s secret weapon for workforce development. By connecting businesses with funding to train employees, the program addresses both immediate and long-term needs.
For 2025, the program awarded $42.7 million to nearly 700 businesses, impacting over 22,000 workers statewide.
Training includes classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and registered apprenticeship programs—all leading to transferable, industry-recognized credentials. This isn’t just about filling vacancies; it’s about future-proofing your workforce. The program helps employers upskill current employees, reskill workers for new roles, and onboard new hires effectively.
Why Businesses Should Care
Michigan businesses can no longer afford to view workforce development as optional. The reality is simple: without skilled workers, there’s no innovation, no growth, and no competitive edge. The Going PRO Talent Fund is designed to bridge this gap by:
Reducing Costs: With the average training cost per employee at $1,412, this program makes upskilling affordable.
Tailored Solutions: Employers define their training needs and work with local Michigan Works! Agencies to develop strategic plans.
Sustainability: Training leads to industry-recognized credentials, ensuring employees remain valuable long-term assets.
Success Stories Across Michigan
From Detroit manufacturers to small businesses in rural areas, employers are seeing real results. Dana Williams, CEO of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, puts it best:
“The Going PRO Talent Fund transforms opportunities into success stories for both Michigan workers and businesses.”
Take the example of a manufacturing firm struggling to integrate advanced automation systems. With Going PRO funding, they trained their existing workforce, ensuring smooth operations and reducing reliance on external specialists.
How to Apply for 2025 Grants
Want in? You’re not alone. The Going PRO Talent Fund’s next application window opens in Spring 2025, so now’s the time to start preparing.
Here’s how:
•Identify Needs: Work with your team to pinpoint skill gaps and training priorities.
•Partner with Michigan Works!: These agencies help craft training strategies and ensure your application hits all the right notes.
•Submit Your Application: Watch for updates at Michigan.gov/TalentFund and make sure to meet all deadlines.
A Long-Term Vision
The Going PRO Talent Fund isn’t just a short-term fix—it’s an investment in Michigan’s future. By empowering businesses to build their workforce, the program ensures long-term economic growth and stability for all.
In a state where manufacturing drives progress, programs like Going PRO offer hope, strategy, and opportunity. Whether you’re struggling to find skilled workers or simply want to stay ahead, this fund can help you turn workforce challenges into competitive advantages.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make “skilled worker shortage” a phrase of the past.
If you’re new to AI, ChatGPT, and chatbots and want to harness their power both personally and professionally, we invite you to join WSI’s AI integrationist, Mark Keady, for a 45-minute webinar titled “ChatGPT 101: How to Work Smarter, Not Harder”.” This session is perfect for beginners looking to enhance their work efficiency, boost output, and unlock the full potential of AI to achieve extraordinary results.
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As the upcoming election draws near, the revitalization of American manufacturing has once again become a central theme in political discourse. Presidential candidates are making ambitious promises to bring back factory jobs and strengthen the industry. However, for manufacturing professionals in Michigan—a state with a rich industrial heritage—the pressing question is: How much can a president truly influence the revival of manufacturing, and what local opportunities are shaping the industry’s future? This recent New York Times article asked that question. In this blog, we examine how the election could affect jobs here in Michigan.
Political Proposals vs. Economic Realities
Former President Donald J. Trump proposes imposing hefty tariffs on nearly all imports to encourage foreign companies to produce goods in the United States. Vice President Kamala Harris, meanwhile, advocates for tax credits and expanded apprenticeships to bolster factory towns and invest in advanced technologies. While these proposals make for compelling campaign narratives, historical evidence suggests that no president can single-handedly dictate the growth of specific industries.
Economic forces such as global market trends, technological advancements, and exchange rates often have a more significant impact on manufacturing. While federal policies can provide incentives and create a favorable environment, the real drivers of manufacturing growth are often found at the state and local levels.
Sun Belt States: The Rise of Business-Friendly Environments
In recent years, manufacturing jobs have been migrating toward the Sun Belt states—such as Texas, Florida, and those in the Southeast—known for their business-friendly climates. These states offer lower taxes, fewer regulations, reliable access to power, and a growing workforce attracted by a lower cost of living and favorable weather.
Nevada, for example, has seen its manufacturing job base grow by more than 13% from early 2020 to March 2023. The state has actively worked to diversify its economy beyond hospitality and entertainment, offering incentives and a welcoming atmosphere for manufacturers. Companies like Alliance North America (ANA) have relocated there, attracted by lower operational costs and a supportive business environment.
“Instead of companies choosing the right location based on all of their other requirements and the presumption that the workers are going to come to them, companies are starting from the presumption of, where are the people moving to?” said Didi Caldwell, president and CEO of Global Location Strategies.
Michigan’s Manufacturing Landscape: Leveraging Local Opportunities
Michigan offers a variety of subsidies and incentives designed to lure businesses and encourage expansion:
Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP): Provides grants, loans, and other economic assistance to businesses that create qualified new jobs and make new investments in Michigan.
Industrial Property Tax Abatement (PA 198): Offers property tax incentives to manufacturers looking to renovate or expand facilities, reducing costs associated with property improvements.
Michigan New Jobs Training Program (MNJTP): Assists employers in training workers for new positions by providing flexible funding to meet the demand for skilled labor.
Michigan Reconnect Program: Aims to help adults over the age of 25 earn a tuition-free associate degree or skilled trade certificate. This program enhances the workforce by providing manufacturers with a pool of skilled workers trained in advanced manufacturing techniques.
Good Jobs for Michigan Program: Provides incentives for businesses that create a significant number of high-paying jobs, aiming to boost the state’s economy and employment rates.
These programs underscore Michigan’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment, reducing operational costs, and supporting workforce development—a critical factor for manufacturers considering relocation or expansion.
Case Study: Michigan’s Attractiveness to Manufacturers
Several companies have taken advantage of Michigan’s incentives to grow their operations:
Ford Motor Company’s Electric Vehicle Investment: Ford has announced significant investments in Michigan to expand electric vehicle production, leveraging state incentives to modernize facilities and retrain workers.
LG Energy Solution’s Battery Plant Expansion: In Holland, Michigan, LG Energy Solution is expanding its battery manufacturing plant, supported by state grants and tax incentives aimed at boosting the clean energy sector.
These developments highlight Michigan’s strategic focus on not only preserving its manufacturing legacy but also pivoting towards emerging industries like electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.
Balancing Local Advantages with National Trends
While the Sun Belt states offer attractive environments for manufacturers, Michigan’s unique combination of incentives, skilled workforce, and infrastructure continues to make it a compelling choice for manufacturing professionals.
Manufacturers in Michigan benefit from:
Skilled Workforce: Michigan boasts a rich pool of skilled labor, thanks to its strong educational institutions and programs like the Michigan Reconnect, which enhances workforce skills by providing tuition-free pathways for adults seeking degrees or certificates in high-demand fields.
Infrastructure and Logistics: The state’s robust transportation network—including major highways, railroads, and ports—facilitates efficient distribution and supply chain operations.
Community and Government Support: Local governments often work closely with businesses to streamline permitting processes and provide assistance, enhancing the ease of doing business.
Cautious Optimism Amid Uncertainty
Despite the positive local factors, the manufacturing industry remains cautious due to broader economic uncertainties and the impending election. Companies are mindful that the outcome could influence taxes, trade policies, and regulations.
“We’re a couple of months away from a huge decision point—who controls Congress and the White House,” said Timothy Fiore, manufacturing business committee chair at the Institute for Supply Management. “I think we’re kind of stuck here until the end of the year.”
Seizing Opportunities in Michigan While Recognizing National Trends
For manufacturing professionals in Michigan, the path to revitalization lies in leveraging state-specific incentives and opportunities while staying aware of national trends like the growth in Sun Belt states. While federal policies and political promises can influence the broader landscape, it’s the tangible, local actions that create a conducive environment for growth.
Michigan’s commitment to supporting manufacturing through various incentives, workforce development programs like Michigan Reconnect, and a business-friendly climate positions it as fertile ground for industry expansion. As the election nears, industry stakeholders should focus on these local advantages, ensuring they are well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities ahead, regardless of political outcomes.
