Small But Mighty

Small But Mighty

RetroFoam of Michigan has been serving the local community since 2002, helping more than 16,000 customers keep their homes comfortable. The company believes that no one should have to live in an uncomfortable home or work in an unbearable workspace. Their mission is to create energy-efficient homes and structures, and they have proudly partnered with Consumers Energy to further that goal.

Beyond improving homes, RetroFoam of Michigan is also committed to investing in its people. The company seeks employees who live and breathe GRIT:

  • G = Growth-Oriented – Embracing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve.
  • R = Respectful – Treating everyone with compassion and integrity.
  • I = Innovative – Demonstrating creativity and forward-thinking solutions.
  • T = Team Player – Harnessing the power of collaboration and a unified team.

The desire to upskill current employees inspired Retrofoam’s General Manager, Jennifer McFatridge, to apply for FY25 Cycle 1 Going PRO Talent Fund funding. This was RetroFoam’s first time applying for the award, and they received $3,325.00 — a great accomplishment for a first-time awardee!

During the training period, RetroFoam employees completed the following programs: Forklift – Train the Trainer, Forklift Operator Safety Training, and Blueprint for Industry. In total, 11 incumbent workers received training, with a reimbursement of $3,030.00.

For a small company of just 51 employees, this means over 21% of their staff gained new skills — while maintaining uninterrupted service to their customers.

“Jacob is now acting as our certified forklift trainer; this factors into his upcoming review and raise. The Blueprint training class allowed our entire sales team to learn blueprint reading and take turns quoting these jobs, resulting in quicker quotes and, hopefully, more sales. The forklift certifications enabled more employees to safely operate forklifts, increasing productivity and safety. Having more sales team members who can quickly and accurately read blueprints will lead to increased sales for the company.”
— Jennifer McFatridge, General Manager, RetroFoam of Michigan

Helping employers invest in their employees is what GST Michigan Works! strives to do every day. We’re thrilled to see the successful outcomes of this partnership with RetroFoam of Michigan.