The students’ entire summer “Apprenticeship Readiness” program is funded through a grant from Michigan’s Talent Investment Agency. Beginning fall semester, the students will be sponsored by nine industries from around West Michigan: Akwel, Benteler Automotive, Borg Warner, Cadillac Casting Inc., ETO Magnetic, FIAMM, Hutchinson, Skilled Manufacturing, and Swoboda.
The program not only trains skilled workers for the Michigan labor market, but they also offer Michigan workers high-wage, high-demand job opportunities that do not require a bachelor’s degree.
“This initiative is consistent with Governor Rick Snyder’s vision to promote high-paying, high-demand, careers available in the professional trades,” Wanda Stokes, Talent Investment Agency Director, said. “By providing both classroom instruction and on-the-job training, apprenticeship programs serve a vital role by preparing workers for critical occupations in Michigan’s labor market.”