west michigan construction institute

Impact Report:
2024 - 2025

Note from
Our Board Chair

To our community of supporters,

Three years ago, the West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI) opened its doors with a mission to create lifelong learning opportunities through construction education. Today, WMCI is a catalyst for workforce development in our region, with growing student enrollment and expanded trade programs. This year, we added high school and adult programs in electrical and drywall, respectively, and completed construction of two, new state-of-the-art training labs.

Our work is about long-term investment in people. This year, EV Construction honored me by establishing the Tony Roussey Building Futures Scholarship Endowment, ensuring students have access to WMCI’s programs regardless of financial barriers. I challenge the construction industry to think long-term and invest in the future of our workforce by supporting WMCI.

To our remarkable staff and instructors, your dedication drives our success. To our partners, your support is the foundation for everything we’ve achieved and everything still to come. On behalf of the WMCI board of directors, thank you for supporting and investing in this work.

With appreciation,

Group of WMCI team members and community leaders at WMCI 2024 groundbreaking

WMCI High School student signing block at WMCI 2024 groundbreaking

WMCI Adult Student signing concrete lab cinder block at WMCI 2024 groundbreaking

WMCI president Jen Schottke Speaking at 2024 groundbreaking

Group of Associated Builders & Contractors - West Michigan chapter sign the cinder blocks of the concrete lab at WMCI 2024 groundbreaking

Financials

revenue

Total: $1,632,868

(hover/tap on chart segments for individual category dollar amount)

Expenses

Total: $1,412,204

(hover/tap on chart segments for individual category dollar amount)

A key driver to WMCI’s growth has been the generous support we’ve received from the community. Thank you!

2024 – 2025 Corporate Sponsors

Students - Adult Craft Training

Craft training at the West Michigan Construction Institute offers students an opportunity to advance their skills as craft professionals. Many of the classroom components are supplemented with lab-based, hands-on activities to advance both the students’ knowledge of the trade and their competency in the skills of the trade. WMCI utilizes the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum which is modular based to ensure the student has a clear understanding of the material before they progress to the next component of their training. WMCI provides student’s successful completion records to NCCER where they are recorded in NCCER’s national registry.

130 NCCER Credentials earned in 2024 - 2025

2 Newly constructed labs completed and utilized in 2024-2025.

19 New-to-the-industry students joined our student body in Fall 2024

6 New instructors added to the WMCI instructional team from the industry

Student numbers

Student Growth

Students - High School CTE program

“My favorite experience this year was the Cedar Springs High School remodel. It allowed me to see all trades, and planning throughout. Getting to see the HVAC/Plumbing room was special to me as well because they had two massive heating units right in the center and it blew my mind because I didn’t know they ranged to be that big.”

– Caleb, Comstock Park High School

96% completion rate for students on tests & labs.

25 field trips and job sites visited by students

9 '24 -'25 graduates hired by industry professionals

17 WMCI level 1 students returning for our new work-based learning program

'24 - '25 School Districts

(represented by amount of students enrolled)

Student Growth

Note from a WMCI Donor

Dan Hall

Lighting the Way for West Michigan’s Future Workforce

Dan Hall, a dedicated supporter from Architectural Glass and Metals & Sobie Company, exemplifies the mission of the West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI). His continued commitment to the organization is driven by a deep personal belief in the transformative power of skilled trades education both for individual students and the broader community.

Personal Inspiration and Lifelong Impact

For Dan, supporting WMCI is more than a professional obligation; it’s a calling shaped by his own upbringing. Raised by a single mother, Dan was profoundly influenced by his high school shop class, an experience that equipped him with essential life skills and a strong work ethic. He believes these skills stay with young people, empowering them throughout their careers and lives, regardless of the paths they ultimately choose.

Memorable Moments with WMCI

Among Dan’s most vivid memories is the sight of buses arriving at WMCI, filled with students from across West Michigan. This powerful image reinforced for him the vital role the Institute plays in exposing young people to career opportunities in the skilled trades. Events such as summer camps and the annual Rally fundraiser stand as further testament to WMCI’s commitment to community engagement and student enrichment.

Addressing the Skilled Labor Shortage

Dan is keenly aware of the challenges facing the construction industry, most notably, an aging workforce and impending retirements. With 41% of current construction workers projected to retire by 2031, he underscores that companies must act now to invest in the next generation. “We can’t wait,” Dan insists. “The future of our industry depends on it.”

WMCI’s Unique Value and Future Vision

Dan praises the caring, family-like environment and the deep sense of community that extends beyond its walls. He envisions a future with expanded learning spaces and greater awareness that meaningful, successful careers are possible without a traditional college path. Even after retirement, Dan is committed to remaining involved with WMCI.

“Your Support Matters—Make an Impact Today”

Dan offers a heartfelt appeal to those considering supporting WMCI for the first time: “If everyone reading this gave $20, $50, or $100, the collective impact would be transformative. I know firsthand how many incredible companies already support WMCI, but individuals can be just as vital. We all have a role to play in building the future of the skilled trades. So what are you waiting for? Your support matters. Make your gift today.”

We extend our deepest gratitude to Dan Hall for his leadership, his generosity, and his belief in the potential of every young person who walks through WMCI’s doors.

Note from the President

To our partners, supporters, and friends,

Each year at WMCI is a testament to what can happen when industry, education, and community come together to build something lasting. This year was no exception.

We saw students gain credentials that moved them into family-sustaining careers. We welcomed new instructors and expanded partnerships. And we reached key milestones that confirm our work is not only relevant but essential.

As we celebrate these achievements, we’re also setting the foundation for what’s next. This fall, we will launch WMCI’s first electrical apprenticeship program. An exciting evolution that positions us to support a wider range of craft professionals.

We also established the Tony Roussey Building Futures Scholarship Endowment thanks to an incredible investment from EV Construction honoring a champion of our mission and ensuring that finances are never a barrier for students ready to work hard and contribute.

And through our new partnership with Grace Christian University, we’re opening pathways for students who want to blend hands-on skills with continued academic growth.

Everything we do from expanding programs to strengthening student support rests on the commitment of people like you. We are grateful for your belief in trades, in our students, and in the power of construction to transform lives.

On behalf of our team and every student who walked through our doors this year: thank you.

With gratitude,

Jen Schottke

President,

West Michigan Construction Institute

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west michigan construction institute

Impact Report:
2024 - 2025