November 8, 2005

Job Training Will Help Employees, Company Stay Competitive

LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced an $18,000 Economic Development Job Training grant to upgrade the skills of 36 workers at Case Systems in Midland. The funding, provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, will equip workers with specialized manufacturing and equipment skills.

“Case Systems has been providing good-paying jobs in Midland for more than 25 years,” Granholm said. “This grant will help ensure the continued success of the company and anchor it in this community for years to come.”

In her 2005 State of the State address, Governor Granholm emphasized the need to make Michigan a global economic powerhouse in the 21st century. Strengthening Michigan’s workforce is part of that plan, with job training one of the tools being used to enhance Michigan’s business-friendly climate.

Under the terms of the award, Delta College will be the grant administrator and Case Systems will provide a minimum 30 percent funding match.

“We are very excited about this training grant and the opportunity it provides for our employees and our company,” Case Systems Human Resources Manager Rhonda Goin said.  “Case Systems is committed to continued investment here in Michigan.”

Case Systems manufactures plastic laminate case goods and ergonomically designed steel furniture for schools, universities, libraries, hospitals, laboratories and other commercial and institutional uses. In 2004, Case acquired Massachusetts-based workstation manufacturer BOSTONtec Inc. The company will use the job training grant to help successfully combine the new operation with its manufacturing facility in Midland. Case employs approximately 170 workers.

“Michigan’s high-skill workers have made our state home to many of the world’s most innovative companies,” MEDC President and CEO James Epolito said. “We appreciate Case Systems’ continued investment in the state and are proud to back their commitment to their workers and to the city of Midland.”

Since 1994, more than $325 million in EDJT grants have helped over half a million Michigan workers improve their skills and enhance the competitiveness of their employers.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life. For more information about the MEDC, please visit the Web site at www.michigan.org.