Autocam Medical, a global contract manufacturer of precision, surgical and medical components and devices, has announced that it will benefit from two grants from the U.S. Department of Labor, the GoingPro Talent Fund and the One Workforce for West Michigan Project.
The GoingPro Talent Fund assists in the training, developing and retaining of current and newly hired employees. The One Workforce for West Michigan Project is a collaborative effort designed to help the unemployed or underemployed gain in-demand manufacturing skills with a focus on automation and artificial intelligence.
"We take pride in the supportive work environment we offer," said Kristy White, Autocam Medical's Human Resource Manager. "These grants will amplify our ability to offer even more of the type of training that leads to credentialed and transferable skills that are valued by our industry."
Grand Rapids Community College and West Michigan Works were awarded the One Workforce Grant and will lead the coalition that includes Autocam Medical and other area employers, workforce development organizations, educators and community groups. The program will build a talented workforce to fill existing job openings and will help to prepare West Michigan for the future of manufacturing.
Autocam Medical's participation in the coalition will help further its commitment to create a skilled workforce, and CNC Machinist Apprentice Program in particular.
"Over the past several years Autocam Medical has made a significant investment in building a Department of Labor (DOL) registered CNC Machinist Program," said White. "The grants will allow us to expand upon the strong foundation we have already built."
The year-round program requires students to complete 728 hours of classroom instruction for 91 weeks. Apprentices are also employed by Autocam Medical and must maintain a full work schedule during the training period. In addition to CNC Machinist certification, the course of study also covers the necessary schooling required by the state of Michigan for students to receive a certified journeyman card and puts them on the path to receive an associate's degree, earning 27 college credits.
"We currently have two classes in place," said White. "We will be hiring another 14 students to take part in the program in September 2021."
Individuals and companies interested in participating in the CNC Machinist Program should contact Kristy White at kwhite@autocam-medical.com.
For more information contact:
Autocam Medical
4152 East Paris Avenue SE
Kentwood, MI 49512
877-633-8080
www.autocam-medical.com