Print to Progress: A Workforce Transformation with TGI Direct

TGI Direct is a premier provider of print, mail, and fulfillment services tailored specifically for companies operating in highly regulated industries. Established in 1964 as a print and mail house, TGI Direct has evolved into a full-service direct marketing firm serving multiple sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and higher education. Since July 2020, TGI Direct, Inc. has been a woman-owned company, with headquarters in Flint, Michigan. The management team has recognized a need for upskilling their workforce across various divisions within the company.

Jamie Portillo, Recruitment and Talent Management Specialist, reached out to GST Michigan Works! and connected with Erich Latham, a Certified Business Solutions Professional, with an interest in building a business partnership and leveraging our services and programs to foster workforce growth and increase capabilities. Erich met with Jamie at TGI in May 2023 to gain more perspective on TGI Direct and explore how we could establish a productive business partnership. During that initial meeting, he introduced Jamie to the possibilities of applying for the Going PRO Talent Fund FY23 Cycle 2.  

They successfully proceeded through the requirements and applied for funding. TGI Direct, Inc. was awarded $33,048 in Cycle 2 funds. Additionally, TGI Direct forecasted hiring 10 new employees for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with On-the-Job Training (OJT) funds helping to offset onboarding costs. Through this award, TGI Direct was able to provide critical training in Principles of Supervision and Leadership, Machine Operation, and Value Stream Mapping and Deployment. These training opportunities, combined with the OJT funds, have enabled TGI Direct to modernize and equip both new and existing employees with essential skills, fostering career growth and supporting the company’s long-term development.