Training Dollars to Assist Businesses Expand Their Pool of Skilled Workers

In response to the needs of business and industry across the state, Michigan Works! Southwest is excited to announce the availability of training dollars to assist businesses in expanding their pool of skilled workers. $27.6 million in funding is available to employers in Michigan through the 2018 State of Michigan Skilled Trades Training Fund (STTF).

STTF provides funding to employers for short term training to enhance the skills of current employees, encourage new hires and expand apprenticeship programs. The goal of the funding is to ensure Michigan’s employers have the talent needed to compete and grow in a global economy.

Prior to the start of the STTF application period, Michigan Works! Southwest is holding Employer Information Sessions to inform businesses about the application process and funding requirements. The information sessions will be held at various locations throughout St. Joseph County between September 7 and September 28, 2017.

Companies can apply for funding through their local Michigan Works! office, beginning September 18, 2017, and the application period closes on October 6, 2017.

The 2017 schedule for STTF information sessions in St. Joseph County is as follows:

Thur., Sept. 7 8:00-9:30 am Sturgis Area Chamber of Commerce

Fri., Sept. 15 1:00-2:30 pm Three Rivers Area Chamber of Commerce

Wed., Sept. 20 8:00-9:30 am Glen Oaks Community College (Centreville)

Thurs., Sept. 28 9:00-10:30 am Webcast

Businesses planning to attend one of the STTF information sessions should RSVP to: straley@upjohn.org

Further information about STTF and the complete schedule of information sessions can also be found online at http://www.michiganworkssouthwest.org/employers/sttf

Michigan Works! Southwest specializes in talent development strategies for employers and job seekers. Services can be accessed at any of our service centers which are located in Kalamazoo at 1601 S. Burdick Street, in Battle Creek at 200 W. Van Buren, in Coldwater at 210 Vista Drive, and in Three Rivers at 16587 Enterprise Drive. Additional information is available online at the Michigan Works! Southwest website www.michiganworkssouthwest.org

To find other Michigan Works! locations in Michigan visit www.michiganworks.org or call (1-800) 285-WORKS (9675).