As first reported in the
Midland Daily News, eight Midland County employers, including Dow and Three Rivers Corporation were awarded grant money from the Skilled Trades Training Fund to diversify and strengthen the skill level of their employees. Funds total over $500,000 across the county and will be used to train more than 2,000 workers across Midland and surrounding counties in 2018.
Diverse skill sets are in high demand throughout the state due to decrease in unemployment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Michigan’s unemployment rate was 4.3 percent in September, whereas, ten years ago it was at 7.3 percent. This comes at a time where the need for skilled electricians, advanced manufacturing and healthcare workers is significant Thus, funding for additional short-term training will help to fill these gaps.
Programs that will be taught include Lean principles and techniques, advanced welding, CNC machining, safety courses and emergency medical courses. Along with distributing funds, Michigan Works! Agencies is also partnering with employers to determine how to best fill the needs of each company.
This training is set to be completed by August 1, 2018 for current employees and new hires alike.
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