May 27, 2004
May 27, 2004
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm announced today that 93 employees at American Autocoat in Hudsonville and Spicer Heavy Axle & Brake in Kalamazoo will benefit from $67,970 in Economic Development Job Training (EDJT) grants. The funding, provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), will be awarded to Grand Rapids Community College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College to provide the training.
“The 21st-century economy requires a 21st-century workforce,” Granholm said. “Continuous training of our already top-notch workers is absolutely essential if we want to maintain a competitive edge to win jobs and investment in the global marketplace.”
In her 2004 State of the State address, Governor Granholm announced a focused, seven-point plan for economic growth. Strengthening Michigan’s workforce is part of that plan. Job training is one of the key tools being used to develop a highly trained pool of workers to enhance Michigan’s business-friendly climate.
Grand Rapids Community College will receive a $17,970 grant to provide technical training to 33 current and new employees of American Autocoat. Located in Hudsonville, the company’s primary service is the application of automotive body color finishes to plastic and composite products for tier one and two automotive suppliers.
Kalamazoo Valley Community College will utilize a $50,000 grant to provide training for 60 existing employees of Spicer Heavy Axle & Brake Inc. in Kalamazoo. Spicer, a division of Dana Corporation’s Heavy Truck Group, engineers and produces strategic components, modules and systems for medium and heavy truck manufacturers worldwide.
“Innovative products and services require technical know-how,” said MEDC President and CEO Don Jakeway. “EDJT funding is the best tool we have to make sure Michigan’s workforce remains among the best in the nation.”
Since 1994, more than $260 million in Economic Development Job Training grants has helped more than half a million Michigan workers improve their skills and enhance the competitiveness of their employers. The program requires that the companies contribute a 25 percent funding match.
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 our Web site at www.michigan.org.
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