News
United Way Northwest Indiana Awards $759,500 in Community Impact Grants
NWI. Life – 10/15/2026 Grants will support 12 organizations and sustainable programs focused on youth, health, and financial stability across Northwest Indiana United Way Northwest Indiana has awarded $759,500 in Community Impact Grants to 12 organizations working to strengthen communities and expand opportunities for individuals and families across Northwest Indiana. The grants were selected from more than…
Read MoreCWI Announces Request for Proposals (RFP) for Success Coaches
Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI) is a 501(c)3 workforce development organization in the Northwest Indiana counties of Jasper, Lake, La Porte, Newton, Porter, Pulaski, and Starke governed by a Board of Directors. CWI is issuing this Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit interest by experienced organizations to provide a Success Coach in Gary and Michigan…
Read MoreCWI, CAF Unveil New Plans for 10th Annual Construction & Skilled Trades Days
The popular career-exploration event, connecting high school students across the region with the trades, expands with a new format and location. VALPARAISO, IN — The Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI), in partnership with the Construction Advancement Foundation (CAF), is proud to announce the return of Construction & Skilled Trades Days, taking place November 17–18 at…
Read MoreNavigating the Journey to Second Chances Through Pathway Home
Project Manager Cicely Morgan Wilson leads U.S. Department of Labor-funded initiative supporting successful reentry through workforce development. Gary, Ind. — The Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI) is helping justice-involved individuals throughout Northwest Indiana build successful futures through Pathway Home 6, a U.S. Department of Labor-funded grant designed to prepare participants for employment before release and…
Read MoreExpanding Your Business Services Toolbox: Why Adult Education Belongs at the Employer Engagement Table
Samantha Smith, CWI Director of Adult Education, for National Association of Workforce Development Professionals – August 7, 2026 Explore how Adult Education can transform workforce solutions by helping employers recruit and retain skilled employees. Business Services professionals are continually challenged to help employers solve workforce shortages, strengthen talent pipelines, and retain skilled employees. While many…
Read MoreAdult Education is Workforce Development: Ending the Stigma and Building the Foundation of the Workforce
Samantha Smith, CWI Director of Adult Education, for the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals 07/08/26 Adult education forms the foundation of workforce development by equipping individuals with the essential skills needed to succeed in training, employment, and career advancement while strengthening our nation’s talent pipeline. After more than 20 years in adult education, I’ve…
Read More10 Commitments Workforce Leaders Should Consider Before the Next MUS Convening
Samantha Smith, CWI Director of Adult Education, for the MUS Connector Newsletter, 07/01/26 Every year, Midwest Urban Strategies convenes some of the brightest minds in workforce development. Workforce leaders gather to exchange ideas, share promising practices, discuss policy challenges, and celebrate innovation across our communities. Last week’s convening in Northwest Indiana was no exception. As I listened…
Read MoreWork-Based Learning Supportive Services Grant Supports Firefighter Training
WIMS Radio – 6/25/2026 The Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI) is proud to support the Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department with a work-based learning supportive services grant that helps offset the cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) for a volunteer firefighter entering Fire Academy training. This support helps ensure a volunteer firefighter has the gear needed to…
Read MoreNational workforce development leaders to convene in Northwest Indiana
The Times of Northwest Indiana – 5/27/2026 National workforce development leaders will convene in Northwest Indiana for a major conference next week. Midwest Urban Strategies, the Center of Workforce Innovations and other partners in Northwest Indiana will host the 2026 Annual Convening, WorkforceWorks!! – The Urban Rural Connection from June 2 through June 4. Employers,…
Read MoreNorthwest Indiana Welcomes International Delegation to Showcase Global Trade and Logistics Strengths
American Journal of Transportation -5/4/2026 On Thursday, April 23, the Northwest Indiana Forum and Ports of Indiana welcomed an international delegation representing 10 countries and provinces to the Ports of Indiana – Burns Harbor, highlighting the region’s growing role in global trade, logistics, and industrial development. The visit was conducted in partnership with the Chicago…
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