June 14, 2004
June 14, 2004
Governor Jennifer M. Granholm announced today that 184 employees at Four Winns in Cadillac will benefit from a $114,439 Economic Development Job Training (EDJT) grant provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Workers will receive specialized training in various disciplines including engineering, design and lean manufacturing.
“Four Winns is a shining example of a Michigan company that has remained successful and grown through the recent challenges facing the manufacturing industry,” Granholm said. “A top-notch workforce has been a key component of the company’s ongoing success. We must continue to provide our valued workers with the appropriate tools to ensure that Michigan companies remain competitive in the global market.”
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 tools being used to develop a highly trained pool of workers to enhance Michigan’s business-friendly climate.
Four Winns has chosen the Wexford-Missaukee Intermediate School District to provide the training to 109 current and 75 new employees. Under the requirements of the program, the company will provide a 25 percent funding match.
Founded in 1962, Four Winns is a fully integrated manufacturer of recreational boats. The company also designs and develops its own component parts and accessories including cabinetry, upholstery and trailers. Four Winns employs nearly 800 in Cadillac.
“The competition for manufacturing investment is tougher than ever before,” said MEDC President and CEO Don Jakeway. “Having highly trained workers that can produce a quality product is a top priority for businesses looking to locate here. Job training such as that being offered to Four Winns is essential to keeping Michigan’s workforce ahead of the curve.”
Since 1994, more than $260 million in Economic Development Job Training grants have helped more than 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 our Web site at www.michigan.org.
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