Baker College of Cadillac’s MAT2 Mechatronics cohort of 18 students learned about team-building during two days of activities at Kettunen Center 4-H Camp before beginning classes Monday, June 18.
The students’ entire summer “Apprenticeship Readiness” program is funded through a grant from Michigan’s Talent Investment Agency. Beginning fall semester, the students will be sponsored by nine industries from around West Michigan: Akwel, Benteler Automotive, Borg Warner, Cadillac Casting Inc., ETO Magnetic, FIAMM, Hutchinson, Skilled Manufacturing, and Swoboda.
The Going PRO Apprenticeship Readiness initiative was established to expand and diversify Michigan Registered Apprenticeships, including the Michigan Advanced Technician Training (MAT2) Program. MAT2 addresses two critical issues facing the manufacturing and technology industries: a widening skills gap and an aging workforce by combining theory, practice and work to train a globally competitive workforce.
The program not only trains skilled workers for the Michigan labor market, but they also offer Michigan workers high-wage, high-demand job opportunities that do not require a bachelor’s degree.
“This initiative is consistent with Governor Rick Snyder’s vision to promote high-paying, high-demand, careers available in the professional trades,” Wanda Stokes, Talent Investment Agency Director, said. “By providing both classroom instruction and on-the-job training, apprenticeship programs serve a vital role by preparing workers for critical occupations in Michigan’s labor market.”
Classes beginning on June 18 at the Baker College of Cadillac campus include Industrial Safety, Engineering Graphics, and Welding and Fabrication.