The Michigan Works! Association has recognized Mohamamd Mahdi Alizada and Webasto with a 2025 Impact Award, celebrating their outstanding contributions to the community and workforce development.
Webasto, a global leader in roof, heating, and cooling systems for vehicles—as well as battery systems for electric mobility—was founded in Germany in 1901 and expanded to the United States in 1974. The company established its Auburn Hills headquarters in 2021 and opened two additional Michigan plants in Plymouth (2020) and New Hudson (2021), now employing over 800 people statewide. In 2024, Webasto USA was named a “Top Employer” for the second consecutive year, recognized for its leadership, business strategy, work environment, and employee development.
SEMCA Michigan Works! played a key role in connecting Afghan refugees with employment opportunities at Webasto’s Plymouth plant, successfully placing over 20 individuals in various roles. The company’s inclusive work environment, with leaders fluent in multiple languages, provided essential support to refugees as they transitioned into their new jobs.
“We have successfully placed over 20 Afghan refugees at Webasto’s Plymouth location in various roles,” said Ghani Mirwais of Webasto’s HR team. “Hiring clients with language barriers has been seamless, as the company has leaders in higher positions who speak the same language, providing essential support to refugees in performing their tasks.
One notable success story is Mohamamd Mahdi Alizada, who fled Afghanistan and lived in Indonesia for seven years, working in the restaurant industry as a janitor and waiter. With the support of his SEMCA career coach, Mohammad Mahdi secured an interview at Webasto and was hired as a full-time Production Operator with a starting wage of $18.45 per hour.
Initially facing transportation challenges, Mohamamd Mahdi benefited from a carpooling system coordinated by Webasto and SEMCA Michigan Works!, ensuring reliable travel to and from work. Further support helped him obtain a vehicle for long-term transportation. His hard work and dedication earned him a promise of promotion after one year—exemplifying the success of workforce development partnerships and inclusive hiring practices at Webasto.
The Michigan Works! Impact Awards honor individuals and businesses who strengthen Michigan’s economy by creating jobs, providing transformational training, and building effective talent pipelines in their communities. During the event, state legislators present tributes to award winners, who share their stories and highlight the impact Michigan Works! has had on their success.