Allied Industrial Group: Building Workforce Excellence Through Collaboration

Allied Industrial Group (AIG) began partnering with GST Michigan Works! in February 2023, following an introduction by Fenton Business Solutions Professional, Roy. Since then, the company has made tremendous strides in workforce development, particularly through the Going PRO Talent Fund program.

AIG first applied for the Going PRO Talent Fund in the spring of 2023. While their initial application did not result in an award, the experience proved invaluable. Encouraged by GST Michigan Works! and equipped with expert guidance, AIG was better prepared for future opportunities.

In November 2023, AIG applied for the FY24 Cycle 1 of the Going PRO Talent Fund, and this time, the company celebrated success: AIG was awarded funding!

GST Michigan Works! expertise and support played a critical role, from navigating the application process to connecting AIG with Michigan-based training providers. These partnerships elevated AIG’s workforce and supported local vendors, amplifying the economic impact.

“Our partnership with GST Michigan Works! has been invaluable. Their deep understanding of our business and goals combined with their knowledge of the process and training vendors has been a key factor in our success,” shared Michele Reynolds, Office Coordinator at Allied Industrial Group.

On January 23, 2025, Roy delivered a reimbursement check to AIG totaling $33,134 for employee training completed in 2024.

The training funded by the Going PRO Talent Fund has been a game-changer for AIG employees. For some, it provided formal vendor training that enhanced their knowledge, while for others, particularly veteran employees, it clarified the reasoning behind processes they had been performing for years. Engineering team members gained deeper insights into software features, enabling faster and higher-quality designs.

Employees returned from training sessions energized, requesting additional advanced courses and bringing innovative ideas back to their roles. These developments have created a ripple effect creating enhanced workplace morale and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

“This is a benefit we can offer to our employees while also increasing our competitiveness in the marketplace,” said Michele. “Employees who feel valued by an employer willing to invest in their growth are more likely to stay, which boosts retention and reduces hiring and training costs. It also differentiates us from other companies by demonstrating to customers the professionalism and proficiency of our workforce.”

The impact is especially evident in AIG’s welding and manufacturing teams. In today’s competitive market, customers want partners they can trust to deliver quality products on time. A well-trained workforce builds that confidence and attracts projects, particularly when budgets are tight.

“Since we started working with GST Michigan Works! in February 2023, we’ve come a long way,” Michele Reynolds reflected. “We are now on our third cycle of the Going PRO Talent Fund. Our first attempt was a learning experience, but the GST Michigan Works! team encouraged and guided us, resulting in successful awards for 2024 and 2025.

“Their knowledge of the process and training vendors has been invaluable. GST Michigan Works! took the time to truly understand our business and goals, which is what makes this partnership so effective. Additionally, we’ve developed relationships with other Michigan-based training providers, benefiting both Allied and those vendors.”

With a skilled workforce, a strong partnership with GST Michigan Works!, and a commitment to excellence, Allied Industrial Group is poised to continue its growth and success, setting an example of how strategic investments in talent can benefit employees, businesses, and the broader community.