Celebrating 45 Years of Workforce Excellence: The EDSI Journey
Dearborn, MI – 7/16/24 – This year marks a significant milestone for EDSI, a company that has been at the forefront of workforce training and consulting for 45 years. Founded in 1979 by Bob Schnieders, EDSI has grown from a small startup to a leader in the industry, providing innovative solutions to workforce challenges across the nation.
The story of EDSI began with one man's vision. Bob Schnieders, a former educator, was passionate about teaching but found the stress and demands of the role overwhelming. Seeking a new direction, Bob shared his vision with his wife of starting his own company focused on providing technical and customized training. Leveraging his background and experience in education, Bob established EDSI, a company dedicated to workforce training and consulting.
“When I hired my first employee, it stopped being about me, and started being about something called EDSI,” said Bob Schnieders, Founder of EDSI.
EDSI's big break came during the automotive industry's collapse. The company secured its first major contract, helping to transition automotive employees into new trade opportunities. This pivotal opportunity led EDSI to collaborate with General Motors, where they developed training programs and electrical repair manuals. At that time, 99% of EDSI's business was with GM and Cadillac. However, after conversations with friends and mentors, Bob recognized the need to diversify his business.
Early Milestones and Growth
Over the years, EDSI secured several significant contracts that paved the way for its growth and success:
- 1980: EDSI developed training manuals for Domino’s Pizza, which are still in use today.
- 1980-1983: EDSI provided consulting services to various school districts in Michigan.
- 1985: EDSI designed and implemented a workforce literacy program for eight major corporations with the California Department of Adult Education.
- 1993: EDSI partnered with the University of Pittsburgh to develop the OSAS skill assessments for dislocated workers.
- 1994: EDSI began operation of its first workforce development program in Pittsburgh, PA.
- 2000: EDSI secured a contract with Rockwell Aerospace in California to develop a skill assessment for workers dislocated by downsizing and moved its headquarters to Commerce Drive in Dearborn, Michigan.
- 2007: EDSI acquired Living Unlimited from Geisinger Health Systems, providing music therapy as a non-invasive intervention to promote wellness. This acquisition gave EDSI a distinct competitive advantage in earning new contracts.
- July 2007: Bob Schnieders passed the torch to his son, Kevin Schnieders, who became the Chief Servant Leader. Kevin launched initiatives to support expansion and growth, including a new operations structure, regional directors, and an expanded human resources team. With team members’ support, he wrote EDSI’s core values: Show Up, Smile, and Support.
As EDSI grew, the company expanded its services and reached new milestones:
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): EDSI helped job seekers access employment, education, and training.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): EDSI addressed the needs of recipients on cash assistance with barriers to employment.
- Non-Custodial Parent (NCP) Program: EDSI assisted men and women involved in child support to obtain and retain employment.
- Re-Entry Services: EDSI supported incarcerated individuals transitioning back into their communities.
- Multi-Generational Programs: EDSI addressed the needs of both children and parents, with the ultimate goal of creating self-sustaining opportunities and better outcomes for the whole family unit.
- Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS): EDSI provided in-school youth with learning challenges industry-based career exploration and work readiness skills.
Since Kevin took over the company, EDSI has continued to expand, running multiple programs and now operating in 10 states with nearly 900 employees. The success of these programs is a testament to the hard work of EDSI's team members with clients and communities.
Awards and Recognition
EDSI has earned numerous awards for its dedication to mission, values, and community service, including the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in the Nation, Corp! Salute to Diversity, and Detroit Free Press and Philadelphia Top Workplaces. In October 2020, EDSI received B Corp Certification, meeting the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability. Companies must go through a rigorous recertification process every three years and EDSI officially received its recertification in May of this year. EDSI has also been ISO certified for 25 years.
Looking Ahead
As EDSI celebrates its 45th anniversary, the company reflects on its rich history and looks forward to a future filled with new opportunities and continued growth. The dedication and hard work of EDSI's employees have been instrumental in the company's success, and the anniversary celebration will honor their contributions.
“HAPPY 45th Anniversary to all the EDSI Representatives who make this a very special place to work. The way everyone shows up, smiles, and supports, will allow EDSI to thrive for 45 more. It continues to be my great honor to be your Chief Servant Leader. I am so proud of the courage my father demonstrated when he began this company, and I am so proud of the way you continue to make it better, each and every year. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!”
For more information about EDSI, please visit www.edsi.com
About EDSI: EDSI is a leading provider of workforce development, talent management, and consulting services. Founded in 1979, EDSI has been dedicated to helping great companies and communities train and retain great people. EDSI works with regions, employers and jobseekers to overcome their most challenging obstacles. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for making a positive impact, EDSI continues to lead the way in the workforce training and consulting industry.
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