west michigan construction institute

Impact Report:
2025 - 2026

Note from
Our Board Chair

Construction has always been about building what comes next. Every project begins with a vision, is brought to life by people working together, and creates something that serves communities
for generations. I believe the same is true of WMCI.

Every day, our students discover what is possible when they step beyond the classroom and into real experiences. They learn from instructors who generously share their knowledge, employers who
open their jobsites, and an industry that is committed to investing in the next generation. Those experiences do more than teach a trade. They build confidence, purpose, and the foundation for meaningful careers.

This past year, we have continued to see the impact of that mission. More students are beginning rewarding careers. More employers are partnering with WMCI. More donors, volunteers, and advocates are investing in our students because they understand that a stronger construction industry begins with stronger people.

To everyone who has been part of that journey, thank you. Your time, generosity, and commitment are changing lives and strengthening our industry in ways that will be felt for generations.
As we look ahead, we are doubling down on our mission while expanding our vision for what WMCI can become.

We are committed to building more than a training institution. We are building a place where people master their craft, embrace emerging technologies, grow as leaders, and discover opportunities they never imagined. We aspire to become the premier destination for construction education, workforce development, innovation, and leadership, helping shape the future of an industry that builds the world around us.

Every generation has the responsibility to leave the next one stronger than it found it. That is the opportunity before us today, and it will require all of us. Instructors willing to teach. Employers willing to mentor and hire. Industry leaders willing to invest in the next generation. Donors and volunteers willing to give their time, resources, and encouragement.

Together, we can do far more than fill workforce needs. We can inspire future builders, innovators, and leaders who will elevate our industry and strengthen our communities for decades to come.

Thank you for believing in WMCI and for joining us in building that future together.

Note from the President

To our partners, supporters, and friends,

What a year.

As I write this letter, I am once again overwhelmed with gratitude for the growth and investment we have experienced at the West Michigan Construction Institute. Your generosity, belief, and continued commitment have equipped us to serve our students and our construction community in extraordinary ways. Thank you from the depths of my heart for caring about our work the way you do.

Last year, I shared that we would be launching WMCI’s electrical apprenticeship program — and launch it we did! We welcomed more than 220 new electrical apprentices more than doubling our adult student enrollment. I want to personally thank the electrical contractors who said yes to WMCI: Bazen Electric, Buist, CS Erickson, FZ, HighPoint Electric, Pylman Power, Swanson Electric, Town & Country Group, Van Haren Electric, and Windemuller. I am also grateful to the individuals who walked alongside us through our electrical workgroup: Kim Kohlhoff (Buist), Farid Irish (Van Haren Electric), Kevin Lutz (FZ), Tim Moody (Windemuller), Peter Reese (HighPoint Electric), and Jim Van Beek (Bazen Electric). Their realtime feedback helped ensure we launched with quality, relevance, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Our donor community also showed up in incredible ways. This year, two scholarship endowments were launched thanks to EV Construction and a private donor. Together, these endowments will allow us to offer more than $25,000 in scholarships each year, a significant increase from the approximately $5,000 we had previously been able to award. These gifts will remove barriers, open doors, and change lives for students ready to work hard and build their future.

And, as if that were not enough, we also received the donation of 843 Century Ave, the property directly south of WMCI. This gift allows us to begin visioning our Phase III expansion, including much-needed lab space and new ways to serve our industry.

Each year, I think, “What a year.” And each year, because of you, WMCI continues to grow into what our students and industry need next. With deep gratitude,

Jen Schottke

President,

West Michigan Construction Institute

Interested in getting involved with wmci?

Here are three ways you can be a part of the continued growth:

1. advocate

Perhaps the most important thing you can do is open doors for future construction professionals. Let them know about the opportunities available to launch a successful career in construction.

2. support

WMCI exists because of the generous supporter from those passionate about our mission. Your tax deductible donation helps create new programs, equipment, and tuition assistance

3. Visit

Hopefully the WMCI stories inspire action, but seeing is believing! You and your team, family, or organization are always welcome to visit the institute for a tour.

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

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.