In Kalamazoo, Michigan, the automotive industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation. It is moving towards an electric future, and local schools are stepping up to play a crucial role in preparing the state for this change. With over $4 million in new investment, students are being equipped with the skills needed to work with semiconductors and electric vehicles.

New Partnership for a Skilled Workforce

A remarkable partnership was announced on Monday between Western Michigan University, Kellogg Community College, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The goal is to create a skilled workforce in the burgeoning field of electric cars. At Western Michigan University, nearly $700,000 will be used to develop a new curriculum with the assistance of General Motors, teaching students about batteries and semiconductors. Meanwhile, at Kellogg Community College, the remaining $3.5 million will upgrade its Advanced Manufacturing Assembly Training to meet the standards of Ford's BlueOval Battery Park project in Marshall.

Benefiting Both Students and the Workforce

Western Michigan University hopes that this program will attract not only new college students but also those already in the workforce. Dr. Steven Butt, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, believes that by working from both sides, the curriculum can be expanded and potentially reach Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio areas. The university sees this as a perfect fit for its existing research into the new and faster development of batteries. Students who are already involved in solar car projects and Formula SAE challenges are excited about the opportunity to gain the background needed for the new era of automobiles.Current engineering student Eliza Eaton emphasizes that even those in the industry now have to constantly learn as the field evolves rapidly. A new curriculum would help lower the learning curve for new hires. With the Biden administration's focus on bringing semiconductor work back to the US, this partnership recognizes that the time to fill these jobs is now. The existing workforce in Michigan, even in an automotive capital, is not sufficient at the moment, and it is time to rise to meet the world's changing needs.

Availability of Classes and the Future

The classes at Western Michigan University are expected to be accessible to students by the beginning of 2026. This provides a clear timeline for students to prepare for the electric automotive future. As the industry continues to evolve, these skills will become increasingly valuable. Local schools are committed to ensuring that Michigan is at the forefront of this transformation, providing students with the knowledge and training needed to succeed in the electric automotive industry.