Ann Arbor, MI – (May 27, 2025) Destination Ann Arbor is proud to announce that three major national union training programs hosted annually in Washtenaw County have collectively generated a total economic impact of $23 million in 2024, significantly benefiting the local economy.

A newly released study, conducted by independent research firm Future Partners, highlights the substantial economic impact of the:

· United Association Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA) - Annual Instructor Training Program

· International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers - Annual Instructor Training Program

· The electrical training ALLIANCE - National Training Institute (NTI)

These training programs, held at Washtenaw Community College (WCC), Eastern Michigan University, and the University of Michigan, bring thousands of skilled trade professionals from across the U.S., Canada and internationally to the area each year. Many participants bring family members, further contributing to local spending and exploring the vibrant community. Their presence directly supports local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and transportation services, reinforcing Washtenaw County as a key destination for national workforce training.

“This economic impact study reaffirms the immense value these training programs bring to our community,” said Sarah Miller, President & CEO of Destination Ann Arbor. “Not only do these programs create jobs and drive visitor spending, but they also strengthen our reputation as a hub for skilled workforce development while providing lasting benefits to the local economy. Washtenaw Community College and Eastern Michigan University play an invaluable role in supporting skilled trade education at a world-class level, helping make programs like this possible. Our hospitality community deeply appreciates the strong relationship between all of our union and community partners.”

Key Findings from the Study:

· $17.9 million in direct visitor spending in Washtenaw County, with additional economic ripple effects leading to a total impact of $23 million.

· 20,921 hotel room nights booked in Washtenaw County.

· $793,141 in tax revenues generated for the county.

· 180 local jobs supported through visitor spending.

This study measures the economic impact of the three one-week training events hosted in 2024. It does not include additional union-related activities throughout the year, such as leadership meetings, specialized training programs, and pre- and post-event planning sessions, which also contribute to Washtenaw County’s economy.

Both Washtenaw Community College (WCC) and Eastern Michigan University (EMU) play vital roles in hosting these programs, providing state-of-the-art facilities and training support.

“WCC is proud to host thousands of skilled trades professionals on our campus each year for hands-on training which strengthens industries nationwide. These partnerships not only provide critical workforce development but also generate significant economic impact for our region,” said WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “We are grateful for the ongoing collaboration with Destination Ann Arbor, whose support helps us welcome these visitors and showcase all that our community has to offer.”

“Eastern Michigan University is proud to be a key partner in hosting these annual training programs, which bring thousands of professionals to our campus and contribute significantly to the local economy. We value our collaboration with Destination Ann Arbor and look forward to continuing to support workforce development in the region,” said Dr. James Smith, President of Eastern Michigan University.

Each of these training programs has a longstanding history in the Ann Arbor area, with some partnerships spanning decades and fostering deep connections with the local community. Their

continued commitment highlights the Ann Arbor area’s reputation as a premier host destination, offering world-class facilities, strong community partnerships, and a welcoming environment for their members. Each union program also emphasized the importance of the Ann Arbor area as a host destination.

“Our 35-year partnership with Washtenaw Community College has helped the United Association grow in ways that benefit our entire membership. The hospitality we receive, along with the state-of-the-art training environment, makes Washtenaw County a natural choice for our annual program. We’re proud of the strong relationship we’ve built with Destination Ann Arbor and the community,” said Raymond Boyd, Director of Education and Training, United Association.

Lee Worley, Executive Director of Apprenticeship & Training, Iron Workers International, stated “The Iron Workers are proud to be partners with Washtenaw Community College, University of Michigan, and the surrounding hotels and establishments of your community. Since our move here in 2010, we have been welcomed with open arms by everyone, especially Destination Ann Arbor. We look forward to our continued relationship.”

"The electrical training ALLIANCE is pleased to call Washtenaw County our home for the National Training Institute for the next five years and beyond. EMU and WCC along with Destination Ann Arbor are great partners, and we couldn’t be happier,” said Tim Strickland,

Director of NTI Operations.

Destination Ann Arbor has been instrumental in facilitating these events, providing exceptional service and support. The organization has been recognized as a Best MidAmerica CVB/DMO by Meetings Today for the third consecutive year in 2024, one of only two destinations in Michigan to receive this honor.

For more information or to access a summary of the economic impact study, visit https://www.annarbor.org/industry/.

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