Lakestate Industries The Upper Peninsulas Leader in Employment and Training Lakestate Industries is a private nonprofit agency that serves people in our community with intellectual disabilities to enhance their lives and the lives of the families who love them. Founded in 1969 Lakestate began as an outgrowth of a parents group concerned with the lack of opportunities available for people with disabilities. Thus Lakestates focus has been giving persons with disabilities the opportunity to experience the rewards of working for real pay while removing barriers to employment and promoting community inclusion. Lakestate Industries provides vocational career exploration job development work training and job services to adult and student populations.