Southwest Michigan to Pioneer Workforce Development with $4.7 Million Public-Private Investment
In an unprecedented collaboration, more than $4.7 million of combined public and private investment is set to transform education and career opportunities in Southwest Michigan and Greater Grand Rapids. This initiative aims to build a skilled workforce pipeline catering to the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) and semiconductor sectors, with the programs expected to commence in 2025.
Kalamazoo, Mich. — This pioneering investment, announced by Western Michigan University (WMU), Kellogg Community College (KCC), the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC), and industry players such as Ford, General Motors (GM), and DENSO, seeks to address the state’s increasing demand for talent in technology-driven industries.
At a press event at WMU’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Floyd Hall, MEDC Director of Higher Education Partnerships, Ava Attari, emphasized the need to close the talent gap to position Michigan as a leader in the tech-forward economy. “Our bold strategy is designed to develop and deliver talent specific to Michigan’s new, tech-forward economy in areas where we have the most opportunity to grow advanced manufacturing — areas like electric vehicles, mobility and semiconductors,” Attari stated.
MEDC’s grants to WMU and KCC are part of a larger $30 million investment with Michigan’s higher education institutions aimed at preparing students for careers in advanced manufacturing. “Together with WMU, KCC and our employer partners, we are positioning Michigan as second to none for top talent and investment for businesses and career opportunities,” Attari added.
Strategic Grants to Foster Innovation
A significant portion of nearly $700,000 has been allocated to WMU to establish a robust talent pipeline for Michigan’s advanced manufacturing sector, with a focus on semiconductors and EVs. WMU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean Steve Butt highlighted the transformative potential of this initiative, stating that it demonstrates the power of public-private collaboration in fostering innovation and economic prosperity.
WMU’s new programs will be industry-driven, targeting roles like electrical engineer, semiconductor technician, and EV processing technician. This initiative aligns with the industry’s growing need for specialized engineers, as noted by GM’s Director of Compute and Connectivity Hardware, Aaron Leiba.
Advanced Manufacturing Training at KCC
Meanwhile, KCC, in partnership with MEDC, announced a $4 million-plus investment to revamp its Advanced Manufacturing Assembly Training program. This upgrade will meet current and future manufacturing standards, with significant input from partners such as Ford Motor Co.’s BlueOval Battery Park Michigan and DENSO.
Kellogg Community College will be the first in the nation to implement FANUC’s CRX-5iA Collaborative Robots, an advanced technology facilitating safe human-robot interaction in industrial settings. “These investments are about more than technology. They’re about preparing our communities in Calhoun, Barry and Branch counties for a brighter, more prosperous future,” said Dr. Paul Watson, President of KCC.
KCC’s program, Kellogg Advanced Manufacturing Industry 4.0, aims to upskill the current workforce and expand the local talent pool. Training will incorporate Amatrol’s Enterprise System, focusing on smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies.
Upon completing their training, students will have the opportunity to earn certifications from the Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA), enhancing their employability in the advanced manufacturing sector.
Broader Economic and Employment Prospects
The BlueOval Battery Park Michigan project anticipates creating 1,700 new jobs, focusing on production, engineering, and logistics roles. This initiative is part of Michigan’s broader strategy to leverage its educational systems to cultivate a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline, particularly in rural and underrepresented communities.
With strong support from Michigan’s government, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, the state is on track to become a national leader in clean energy and EV manufacturing. Recent reports indicate the potential for substantial job creation in the clean energy sector, underscoring the need for a skilled workforce.
As part of its comprehensive talent strategy, the MEDC has connected thousands of individuals to high-tech roles and expanded internship opportunities, supporting the state’s economic growth and workforce development initiatives.
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