Delton Kellogg High School Kicks Off Advanced Manufacturing Curriculum Supported by LIFT and State of Michigan

Delton, Mich. – In an effort to equip Michigan students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the rapidly evolving world of advanced manufacturing, IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing curriculum has kicked off for the 2025-26 school year at Delton Kellogg High School. 10% of the school’s population of more than 300 students is participating in the inaugural program.

The State of Michigan together with LIFT, the Department of Defense-supported national manufacturing innovation institute, and in partnership with the Michigan Manufacturers Association, supported expanding the program to the school through an appropriation from the state legislature in 2024. The pilot program in Delton Kellogg brings cutting-edge curriculum and equipment to students in an effort to strengthen Michigan’s pipeline of skilled talent in high-demand technical careers.

“We are thrilled to offer real-world and relevant programming to so many of our students,” said Jeremy Wright, Superintendent, Delton Kellogg School District. “We are thankful for partners like LIFT, the Michigan Manufacturers Association, and particularly the Michigan Legislature, for their vision and support of our students in creating these unique pathway opportunities in advanced manufacturing.”

Why IGNITE Is Needed Now More Than Ever
Michigan, a historic manufacturing hub, now faces a critical skills gap as employers seek a new generation of workers who are both technically trained and adaptable to new technologies. IGNITE directly addresses this need by giving high school students a head start on careers in advanced manufacturing while supporting their academic growth in math, science, and problem solving.

An Innovative, Holistic Curriculum
IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing is built around three integrated components:

1. Capstone Projects: In their final year, students apply their knowledge in team-based projects that solve real-world manufacturing problems using emerging technologies.
2. Materials Science: Students explore the properties and applications of advanced materials through modules rooted in both technical and core academic subjects.
3. Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Processes: Interactive multimedia learning and virtual simulations bring manufacturing systems to life through three foundational courses.

Each course also incorporates Common Employability Skills—such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking—ensuring students are ready to thrive in any career path.

“At a time when Michigan’s manufacturing economy is rapidly transforming, it is essential that our education system evolves to meet the needs of todays and tomorrow’s workforce,” said Nigel Francis, CEO and Executive Director of LIFT. “IGNITE is about giving students access to real-world learning that opens doors to sustainable, high-tech careers in manufacturing.”

Building a Future-Ready Workforce
Originally developed in 2018 with input from industry leaders and funding from the Department of Defense, IGNITE has already served more than 37,000 students nationwide. Its arrival in Michigan is both timely and necessary.

“The manufacturing industry is evolving quickly, and employers need people with talent and a high level understanding of advanced technology and systems,” said John Walsh, President and CEO of the Michigan Manufacturers Association. “IGNITE prepares students for the future  with rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.”

As advanced manufacturing increasingly relies on digital tools, customized production, and data-driven processes, IGNITE ensures that students are prepared to be at the forefront of innovation and economic growth.

In addition to Delton Kellogg, the program is also being introduced at Troy Athens High School in Troy, Michigan.

About LIFT
LIFT, operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute, is the Detroit-based, public-private partnership between the Department of Defense, industry, and academia, committed to the development and deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies, and implementing talent development initiatives to better prepare the workforce today and in the future. LIFT funded in part by the Department of Defense with management through the Office of Naval Research. Visit https://lift.technology/or follow on LinkedIn at LIFT or on Twitter @NewsFromLIFT to learn more.