CWI education director earns national certification

The Center of Workforce Innovations’ director of adult education received national certification through a federally registered apprenticeship.

Samantha Smith earned the Certified Workforce Development Professional from the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals.

“Pursuing the CWDP certification was part of my ongoing commitment to building adult education programs that remove barriers and create opportunities for learners,” Smith said in a press release. “When adult education is aligned with workforce needs, it can open doors for individuals and families seeking long-term stability.”

The designation recognizes those who become certified as leaders in training programs that develop talent and engage the community.

The association has five competencies that certification is based on:

  • Customer service methodology
  • Diversity in workforce development
  • Labor market information and intelligence
  • Principles of communication
  • Workforce development structure, policies and programs

Smith joined CWI in 2023 from the Ogeechee Technical College in Georgia where she served as dean of adult education. The Smith received the CWDP certification in December 2025.

CWI offers programs for adults pursuing high school equivalency credentials, workforce skills and postsecondary opportunities.

Author

  • Heather Pfundstein 2024
    Publisher/Executive Editor - Linker Media Group

    Heather Pfundstein is the publisher and executive editor of Northwest Indiana Business Magazine and NWIndianaBusiness.com. She is an award-winning journalist with more than 25 years of experience in Northwest Indiana and northern Illinois newsrooms. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. She has been part of the magazine's team since 2018.

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