More than $17 million in skilled trades training funds available to help create more than 3,800 jobs, retain 11,000

More than 480 employers to benefit from FY 17 awards

November 21, 2016

LANSING, Mich. – Nearly 15,000 job-seekers and workers will receive training for in-demand technical jobs through grants totaling $17.1 million awarded under Michigan’s Skilled Trades Training Fund, the Talent Investment Agency announced today.

The training program was established in 2013 by Gov. Rick Snyder and the Michigan Legislature to help employers develop the talent they need to fill thousands of available skilled trades jobs. The fiscal year 2017 funding is on track to create 3,873 jobs and retain 11,022 positions by providing additional training, with 481 employers taking part in the program.

“Michigan has made tremendous progress, but there is more to do as we help our residents gain the in-demand skills they need and help our businesses grow and thrive, creating more and better jobs,” Snyder said. “Companies often tell us that they struggle to fill openings, especially in the area of the skilled trades. This program has proven to be an excellent resource to help our state grow stronger.”

The Skilled Trades Training Fund provides competitive awards for training that enhances talent, productivity and employee retention while increasing the quality and competitiveness of Michigan’s businesses. It ensures that employers have the talent they need to compete and grow nationally and globally, and that people have the in-demand skills they need for good jobs.

Classroom training must lead to a credential for a skill that is transferrable and recognized by the industry, and leads to permanent full-time employment or continued permanent full-time employment.

This is the fourth year of the program, with nearly 8,000 jobs created in the first three years, with about 26,000 employees getting new skills to retain their jobs. The state has invested more than $30.3 million in the program in the first three years, assisting 855 businesses.

“The Skilled Trades Training Fund is one of several tools we have to build talent and connect Michiganders with opportunities for great jobs,” TIA Director Wanda M. Stokes said. “We want Michigan to continue growing stronger for years to come.”

Here is the list of fiscal year 2017 recipients.

Visit www.michigan.gov/tia for more information on the Talent Investment Agency.