Communications and Event Manager

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT US

The West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI) is on a mission to develop the next generation of commercial construction professionals. We provide cutting-edge training and certification programs that open the door to well-paid, high-demand careers in the skilled trades. Our students gain lifelong, valuable skills that empower them to build vibrant communities, drive strong local economies, and transform the skylines of our cities and towns.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

As the Communications and Events Manager at WMCI, you'll be the storyteller, connector, and event planner behind our growing brand. This full-time position is responsible for elevating WMCI's visibility, growing donor and industry engagement, and bringing our mission to life through strategic communications and impactful events. Working closely with the President and our administrative team, you'll shape marketing efforts, support fundraising campaigns, lead signature events, and collaborate with partners like the ABC Western Michigan Chapter to champion careers in construction. Above all, you'll embody a spirit of service-supporting students, instructors, and employer partners with humility, responsiveness, and care.

In this role, you will:

Lead Marketing and Communications

• Drive WMCI's brand and message across digital, print, and media platforms through compelling, mission-driven content.
• Manage the marketing calendar and oversee campaigns that promote student enrollment, courses, and organizational milestones.
• Create and share content that highlights our students, instructors, and success stories-including photography, video, and written storytelling.
• Track performance and adjust strategies based on results, ensuring strong visibility and alignment with organizational goals.

Support Fund Development and Donor Engagement

• Plan and execute donor communications-from newsletters and spotlights to behind-the-scenes impact updates.
• Partner with the President on donor cultivation, sponsorship development, and grant writing.
• Manage the donor CRM, ensuring clean records and timely stewardship.
• Collaborate with the Corporate Impact Committee to grow relationships and secure new funding opportunities.
• Lead fundraising initiatives including the annual campaign, giving day efforts, and donor impact reporting.

Lead Signature Events and Community Engagement

• Serve as project lead for WMCI's fundraising events, including the Rally.
• Plan and manage event logistics, promotion, budgeting, and sponsor recognition.
• Support institutional events such as summer camps, career fairs, graduations, and community outreach.
• Represent WMCI at construction industry events and career expos, helping to build partnerships and public awareness.
• Capture and report on event outcomes to drive continuous improvement and donor follow-up.

ABOUT YOU

You're a creative, organized professional who thrives on storytelling, strategy, and seeing an event come to life. You enjoy building relationships, managing details, and connecting the dots between marketing, development, and mission impact. You're energized by fast-paced environments, skilled at juggling multiple priorities, and grounded in a willingness to serve others.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent education/work experience in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, or a related field AND 5+ years of progressive work experience in marketing, communications, fundraising, or events management.
• Strong writing and storytelling skills with an eye for visual design and brand alignment.
• Proficiency with digital marketing tools and CRMs such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Mailchimp, Salesforce, or Bloomerang.
• Demonstrated success managing multi-channel marketing strategies, donor engagement, or public-facing events.
• Exceptional project management skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Confident relationship-builder with comfort engaging donors, partners, and community stakeholders.
• Experience managing budgets and coordinating with vendors or contractors.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is preferred and valued.

ABOUT YOU + US WORKING TOGETHER

When you join WMCI, you'll be part of a passionate, collaborative team working to build a stronger, more skilled workforce. We offer:

• A competitive salary
• A robust benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, an employee assistance program, life and disability coverage, a phone stipend, and a 401(k) plan with an exceptional company match
• A modern, accessible workplace located in downtown Grand Rapids with free parking
• A culture rooted in service-where we put students, instructors, and industry partners first, and show up every day ready to help however we can.

APPLY TODAY

If you're ready to help shape the voice, presence, and community impact of WMCI, we want to hear from you. Join our team and help us build the future of skilled trades education in West Michigan.

Job Posted by ApplicantPro