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2022 – by the numbers
A look back at wmci's first year
And the people, programs, and partners that made it a success!
In January 2022, the West Michigan Construction Institute officially opened its doors.
There was a lot of media buzz and excitement in the air at the open house as construction industry professionals, donors, future students, and partners toured the $3.5 million, 14,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility.
WMCI has more than doubled the amount of construction training courses it offers to a diverse mix of high school students, post-secondary students entering the trades, and current construction professionals looking to hone their skills.
"Construction is a lifelong career and it does require lifelong learning. Every day in construction is learning something new because no project goes perfectly according to plan. There’s always problem-solving and critically thinking. We’re just trying to lift up how amazing and noble it is to be a tradesperson.”
Jen Schottke
WMCI President
some 2022 stats...
109
Adult craft training students
19
Field trips taken to active construction sites, company headquarters, and fabrication shops.
11,021
nails used (give or take a couple hundred)
7,266
Cheez-its eaten by middle school students attending construction summer camp
Will you make a difference in 2023?
The WMCI mission is to build up our West Michigan communities by empowering the next generation of construction professionals. Our goal is to prepare them with the skills to turn a job into a successful, meaningful lifelong career.
If this mission aligns with yours, then you can make a difference in three main ways.
The top 3 ways to get involved:
The most important!
There are still many high school and post-secondary students that think the only education option after graduating is going to college. But that’s simply not the right fit for everyone.
We all know someone who would be a perfect fit for the trades. Encourage them to contact WMCI or schedule a tour.
Make sure you stay connected by subscribing to the WMCI newsletter and/or joining us on social. This way you’ll be in-the-know about all sorts of events, course options, and volunteer opportunities.
WMCI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies on generous support to be able to serve our community.
When you donate to WMCI, you’re helping create the leaders that build our skyscrapers, churches, schools, and infrastructure.
More from the blog
West Michigan Construction Institute Impact Report: 2025 – 2026
The WMCI Impact Report is an overview of the institute's progress in the 2024 - 2025 academic year. View financials, student demographics, programming & more.
Jen Schottke Interview – eightWest Interview
WMCI president Jen Schottke was interviewed by West Michigan Woman on how we can fill the talent gap by helping more women realize their potential working in construction careers.