DETROIT, MI –The Michigan Workforce Development Institute (WDI) has received an $8 million grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to support the Michigan Statewide Pre-Apprenticeship “Ready for Construction” (MiSPARC) program.

The MiSPARC program will provide participants with training to help them achieve employment in the high-demand building trades and transportation sectors of the construction industry, with priority given to unemployed, underemployed, low-income, minorities and women who have been underserved through Registered Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship Programs.

“The MiSPARC Grant is a historic investment in working people and in the future of Michigan. While the building and construction trades are preparing for the many infrastructure projects scheduled for this year, the Michigan Workforce Development Institute is training the next generation of Apprentices and Journeyworkers,” said Cheryl SANFORD, CEO of Michigan Workforce Development Institute. “This funding will allow us to greatly expand our apprenticeship readiness training programs, preparing more Michiganders to enter high-demand careers in the building and construction trades.” 

About Michigan Workforce Development Institute
For nearly 40 years, the Michigan Workforce Development Institute has provided services to job seekers and employers throughout the state of Michigan. We have helped thousands of job seekers achieve self-sufficiency by providing training and placement assistance in high-demand occupations. Our demand-driving business services model has helped employers remain competitive by attracting and retaining highly-trained and skilled workers. For more information on the Michigan Workforce Development Institute, click here. 

For more information on the Women in Skilled Trades program, click here.