Scottsdale, AZ –The Wood Industry Association (WIA) presented its 2025 Wooden Globe Award for Educator of the Year to Next Step of West Michigan as part of WIA’s Wood Industry Conference (WIC) held in Scottsdale, Arizona.

David Bult, executive director of Next Step of West Michigan, accepted the award on April 30, as part of the WIC business meeting.

The Educator of the Year award recognizes an educational institution or training program that demonstrates excellence in preparing individuals for careers in the woodworking industry. Honorees are chosen for their advocacy, innovation, and impact on workforce development in the wood sector.

 

Next Step of West Michigan was recognized for its outstanding contributions to vocational education through its two primary programs: the Adult Wood Training Program and the High School Wood Tech Program, both based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Launched in 2020, the Adult Wood Training Program is an intensive seven-week course designed to equip individuals with both practical woodworking techniques and essential job readiness skills. The program operates year-round, offering six cohorts annually with 10 to 12 participants each. Trainees gain hands-on experience in designing and building wood products while learning to safely operate machinery, power tools, and hand tools. 

With a focus on experiential learning, the program boasts a 77% job placement and retention rate, preparing graduates for careers in woodworking, furniture making, manufacturing, and construction.

In 2022, Next Step introduced its High School Wood Tech Training Program, a project-based curriculum that teaches skills and concepts to be directly applied at modern wood manufacturing companies. Upon completion, students have the skills and industry-recognized credentials needed to obtain internships or employment, including the Woodworkers Career Alliance (WCA) Sawblade Certification.

Over the past 12 years, Next Step of West Michigan has helped more than 250 individuals launch successful careers in the woodworking industry. 

For more information on Next Step of West Michigan’s programs, visit: nextstep-wm.org.