We are committed to advancing woodworking and training the next generation of industry technicians. To support this mission, we’ve partnered with Next Step of West Michigan (NSWM). Through our parent company, Choice Machinery, we have donated key equipment to NSWM, including a door and face frame clamping table, pocket hole cutters, and a horizontal edge belt sander.
What is the Next Step of West Michigan?
Next Step of West Michigan, a faith-based nonprofit out of Grand Rapids, equips individuals facing employment barriers with job skills and work opportunities. They are committed to closing the wealth gap and ensuring equal access to employment opportunities.
The program was founded to support those overcoming challenges, including limited resources, unstable housing, past incarceration, or addiction, by working alongside them to restore dignity, creativity, and purpose. Through this hands-on approach, they foster an empowered workforce and deliver high-quality products and services to the community.
They have expanded to provide high school students with wood product manufacturing training, combining technical, occupational, and life skills to create career pathways and bridge the employment gap. Their ultimate goal is to foster a sustainable environment where people heal, grow, and thrive through work and relationships.
A Community-Centered Collaboration
Thanks to our new machines, trainees expand their woodworking capabilities, gaining valuable, applicable, and employable skills using industry-standard equipment. Participants using the donated equipment learn joinery techniques and other vital cabinetry and furniture construction skills.
Each machine serves a distinct purpose in developing woodworking skills.
- R2061 Pocket Hole Machine - introduces participants to concealed joinery used widely in cabinetry.
- R901 Horizontal Edge Belt Sander - used for a variety of edge finishing applications.
- R275EAO Combination Clamping Table – Provides an efficient and economical method for assembling face frames and 5-piece cabinet doors and other clamping applications.
Together, these machines simulate a professional workshop, allowing trainees to work in a setting that mirrors industry standards, from safety practices to technical competencies that local employers seek.
Looking Ahead
This donation marks the beginning of what we hope will be a longstanding partnership with Next Step. At Ritter, we’re proud to support skills training programs that uplift individuals and strengthen communities. Together with Choice Machinery, we are excited to witness the positive impact this equipment will have on NSWM’s trainees and to help create meaningful career opportunities in the trades.
Learn more about Next Step’s mission here.
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Empowering Local Trades: Ritter’s Partnership with Next Step of West Michigan