In a day and age where high technology jobs are on the table every day going unfilled, the work of Lake Michigan College's new Hanson Technology Center plays an ever increasing role in turning that tight market situation around dramatically. Thanks to the tremendous work of the Lake Michigan College Apprenticeship program, students have the unique opportunity to learn and earn at one and the same time, and prospective workers have the chance to learn more about that soon.
Lake Michigan College will celebrate the Nation’s second annual Apprenticeship Week on Monday, November 14 in its new Hanson Technology Center. Guests will learn about the area’s latest apprenticeship successes and opportunities, and hear the results of a three-year initiative to improve statewide manufacturing training programs.
National Apprenticeship Week was established in 2014 with a goal to double the amount of apprenticeships within five years. It is part of an overall effort to make a dent in the skills gap faced by U.S. employers who are trying to fill a near record number of 5.4 million unfilled job openings. Apprenticeships use an “earn and learn” training model that combines paid on the job experience coupled with a substantial educational component.
Dr. Ken Flowers is LMC's Dean of Career & Workforce Education. He tells us, “Apprenticeships are a win-win for everyone, and they’re making a comeback. Students are catching on to the vast career opportunities in advanced manufacturing and local companies benefit by diversifying their workforce, improving productivity and profitability, reducing turnover and receiving tax credits.”
During the event in two weeks, an Impact Report prepared by the Michigan Coalition for Advanced Manufacturing (M-CAM) will reveal the outcome of a $24.9 million U.S. Department of Labor grant awarded in 2013 to a group of eight Michigan community colleges, including Lake Michigan College.
The report will highlight the massive strides LMC has made since then to modernize program design and delivery, update equipment and technology; enhance job placement and career development services; improve statewide policies and strengthen partnerships with regional industry leaders.
Mike Levi of Eagle Technologies says, “We’re proud to partner with LMC in educating young men and women in the skilled trades/manufacturing programs.” He adds, “We hire some of the best young talent in the area and LMC does an excellent job of co-training our apprentices.”
The event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 7:30am and the program begins at 8am and includes a tour of the new Hanson Technology Center, located at 2755 E. Napier Avenue. in Benton Harbor. Guests should RSVP at lakemichigancollege.edu/NAW, or contact Lynette Wolf at lwolf@lakemichigancollege.edu or 269-926-4297.
Lake Michigan College offers more than a dozen technology programs including workforce certificates, associate and transfer degrees and a baccalaureate degree. Learn more at lakemichigancollege.edu/technology.
