Lenawee County is entering a new era of economic growth, and the cornerstone of this progress is our dedication towards workforce development. After all, when companies are evaluating locations to start, move, or grow, the availability of skilled talent is a big deciding factor.
That is why we are proud to highlight our partnership Align Center for Workforce Development, a county-wide initiative based out of Adrian, MI, with benefits extending to Tecumseh and beyond. These training programs not only prepare individuals for today’s careers but also strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem tied directly to the Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone.
What is Align Center for Workforce Development
The Align Center for Workforce Development officially opened its doors in June this year on Church Street in Adrian. Built on the redeveloped campus of the former St. John’s Lutheran School, the facility has quickly become the hub for Lenawee County Michigan training programs.
Align is more than a place to aid workforce development! It’s a county-wide collaboration supported by educational institutions, nonprofits, and local employers. Their mission? Close skills gaps, provide pathways into meaningful careers, and ensure Lenawee County businesses have access to the workforce they need to grow.
What Align Does
Align offers a wide spectrum of training programs in Lenawee County that are directly tied to in-demand industries. Career pathways include construction, safety management, equipment operation, and more.
With their help, the local workforce can find unique training and learning opportunities that keep them on the cutting edge of their industries. For instance, one of Align’s goals is to incorporate advanced simulators and virtual reality to give students and job seekers hands-on training that prepares them for the realities of the workplace.
Beyond career training, the center includes a “maker space” and entrepreneurial hub where innovators and startups can test ideas, prototype solutions, and collaborate with mentors.
Small business consulting and financial empowerment services are available on-site, complemented by resources from partners such as Lenawee Now, Michigan Works Southeast, and local higher education institutions. Together, these partners create a connected ecosystem that bridges talent development and business growth—helping individuals and organizations thrive.
How Align Helps Businesses
Startups and new businesses alike in Adrian, Tecumseh, and greater Lenawee County will find Align’s assistance to be invaluable.
Employers can tap into a pool of job-ready workers who hold industry-recognized certifications in healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and skilled trades. This reduces hiring costs and speeds up onboarding, giving companies a competitive edge.
Align also provides opportunities for business leaders to shape training programs directly.
By working alongside educators, employers help ensure that training aligns with industry needs. For small businesses and entrepreneurs, Align offers consulting services, access to the makerspace, and incubation opportunities—all designed to lower barriers to growth and innovation.
Benefits for Businesses Starting, Moving, or Growing Here
Why should you get started in Lenawee, or make the move? Among all the benefits of the SmartZone, Align is another major advantage:
- Backed by $10 million in state funding and regional investment, the Align Center signals long-term stability and growth support.
- Adrian and Tecumseh’s business-friendly climate becomes even more attractive with a reliable workforce pipeline in place.
- Companies gain access to trained employees whose skills align with industry needs, reducing hiring and onboarding costs.
- The center provides entrepreneurial support and resources, helping both startups and expanding businesses thrive.
- Businesses benefit from a community committed to economic growth, with local leaders, schools, and employers working in sync.
- A strong focus on upskilling and workforce retention ensures talent adapts to industry changes and remains in the region.
- The presence of Align strengthens relocation and expansion decisions, lowering talent risk and improving long-term success.
Align and the Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone
The Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone exists to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and commercialization across Lenawee County. Align Center for Workforce Development enhances this mission by ensuring a steady flow of trained talent and entrepreneurial resources.
Through partnerships with Lenawee Now, higher education institutions, and state-level programs, Align helps strengthen the SmartZone’s ability to attract and support new ventures.
For technology companies, manufacturers, and service providers, the combination of SmartZone business incubation and Align’s workforce training creates a powerful ecosystem. Adrian and Tecumseh stand out as communities where businesses have both the support and the talent needed to succeed.
Grow Your Business with the Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone!
The growth of Lenawee County depends on more than buildings and infrastructure—it depends on people. Align Workforce Development ensures that Adrian, Tecumseh, and the greater county have the skills and talent to support sustainable economic success.
For businesses looking to start, move, or expand in Lenawee County, the combination of Align Workforce Development and the Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone offers unmatched support. Together, we are building a stronger workforce, a healthier economy, and a brighter future for our communities.
If you are ready to explore how Lenawee County Michigan training programs can support your business growth, we invite you to connect with us at the Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone.