Strengthening Retention Through Soft Skills

Advanced Auto Trends Inc. (AATI), a plastic injection molding company based in rural Snover, operates 24/7 with 115 employees across three shifts. In a location where recruitment and retention are especially challenging, AATI recognized the value of investing in its current workforce to help retain employees and build future leaders.

Through ongoing conversations with GST Michigan Works! Business Services Professionals, AATI identified that strengthening soft skills—like communication and leadership—could significantly impact employee morale, productivity, and long-term retention. Fortunately, AATI’s leadership had already begun researching training providers and potential participants, setting the stage for a meaningful workforce investment.

With support from GST Michigan Works! and funding through the Industry Infinity Incumbent Worker Training grant, AATI was awarded $15,880 to provide customized soft skills training for 27 employees. The training, delivered by Educated Business Resources Corporation (EBRC), included four different class topics held across nine sessions. Training was hosted off-site at the GST Michigan Works! Marlette office to minimize workplace distractions, and an additional session on CMM Manager Software was held at the training provider’s facility.

Notably, 20 of the 27 trainees received multiple certificates, with an average investment of  $588 per employee.

“The training was put into action right away,” said Ken from AATI. “I witnessed individuals applying their newly learned communication techniques with coworkers just days after training.” He continued, “Leadership and communication skills are necessary for our operations and our reputation. The ability to manage and motivate others affects morale and retention… and of course, quality, safety, and production.”

Many trainees personally shared how much they appreciated the hands-on, interactive training, reinforcing that investment in people pays off, both in performance and in engagement.