Organization Name: Center of Workforce Innovations, Inc.
Executive Leader Name/Title: Lisa M. Daugherty, President & CEO
Website: www.cwicorp.com
Tell us about your organization’s mission and the communities you serve:
We serve a seven-county region in Northwest Indiana. Those counties include Lake, Porter, La Porte, Jasper, Newton, Pulaski, and Starke counties.
Celebrating 25 Years of Workforce Innovation in Northwest Indiana
For more than two decades, the Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI) has been a trusted leader in workforce development across Northwest Indiana. Serving a seven-county region including Lake, Porter, La Porte, Jasper, Newton, Pulaski, and Stark counties, CWI has grown from a workforce board staff organization into a dynamic partner in education, employment, and community collaboration.
Led by President and CEO Lisa M. Daugherty, CWI provides a wide range of services supported by WIOA funding and beyond. From adult education and modern apprenticeships to employer-based training and youth-focused initiatives, their work reaches across generations and industries. The READY initiative (Regional Education and Employer Alliance for Developing Youth) helps young people prepare for life after high school. One example is Bridging the Gap, which supports seniors without a post-graduation plan by offering goal setting, resume writing, financial literacy, and career fair exposure.
One story that reflects CWI’s impact is that of Ugeneka Findley, a single parent and justice-involved young adult who came to the One Stop system in search of a second chance. With guidance from WorkOne, access to the 220 Leadership online platform, and participation in the Growth Opportunity Project, Ugeneka began rebuilding her life. She completed a work experience at the Northwest Indiana Food Bank and was hired as a permanent employee. Her journey is a reminder of how workforce services can open doors and restore hope.
CWI joined Midwest Urban Strategies to collaborate with other boards to explore innovative practices and stay informed on federal workforce policy. Their involvement in the Growth Opportunity Grant has strengthened partnerships and allowed them to expand youth services alongside other MUS members. Events like the MUS Convening have also helped them learn from peers and bring new insights back to their region.
CWI is currently celebrating 25 years of service. What started as a small team supporting the workforce board has become a recognized leader for workforce and education services. With a focus on collaboration and community growth, CWI continues to build bridges between employers, educators, job seekers, and youth.
Want to read the full Member Spotlight Interview: Read Here
