Schools
OCC to Receive $4.5 Million in Skilled Trades Funding
Grant program is a critical component state's strategy to address demand for hard-to-fill jobs.
Oakland Community College will receive $4.5 million in funds to purchase equipment for training in auto servicing, collision repair, medium/heavy truck and commercial driving, Gov. Rick Snyder announced Tuesday.
The allocation from the Michigan Strategic Fund shows commitment on the state government’s part to funding high-demand skilled trades and putting the resources in place to make that happen, OCC Chancellor Timothy R. Meyer said, according to a news release.
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“Auto servicing, diesel mechanics and mechatronics are great occupations with high demand into the future,” he said. “OCC is focused on meeting community need and the transportation sector shows significant growth requiring skilled workers.”
OCC will provide more than $1.5 million in matching funds. It is one of 18 state community colleges to receive $50 million in grant funds to boost training in skilled trades.
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OCC received support from Oakland Schools, the Michigan Trucking Association, Central Transport and the Suburban Collection in their grant application. Oakland Schools will provide articulation support and the other partners will provide jobs and stay connected with OCC as it implements programs.
The grant program is a critical component of the state’s comprehensive strategy to address demand for hard-to-fill jobs.
The program offered up to $4.8 million to community colleges providing a 25 percent match for equipment costs, including installation, renovations and instructor training. The program also requires collaboration with school districts and a detailed plan on how the funding will help meet employers’ job needs.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation approved the schools selected for funding through the Community College Skilled Trades Equipment Program, an effort to help close a talent gap and meet a demand for good-paying jobs.
Announced by Snyder in October, the grant program provides funding for Michigan community colleges to purchase equipment required for educational programs in high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand occupations.
Earlier Tuesday, the Michigan Strategic Fund authorized issuing bonds to fund the program.
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Photo via Creative Commons
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