LIFT Launches No-Cost Skilled Trades Training Program for Low-Income Wayne County Residents

Residents can earn certifications in welding, CNC machining or robotics

DETROIT – LIFT, the Detroit-based Department of Defense manufacturing innovation institute, today announced the launch of a free skilled trades training program, specifically geared towards low-to-moderate income Wayne County residents. The program is funded through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Regional Talent Innovation Grant and support through Wayne County.

Through this program, LIFT will provide certification training for 80 Wayne County residents in robotics, welding, and CNC operations at its Detroit headquarters, located in Corktown. At least 51% of the students enrolled must qualify as low income and complete the program by mid-June 2023.

“Our LIFT Learning Lab in Detroit was designed to provide opportunities to prepare the advanced manufacturing workforce of tomorrow, but it was also established to provide opportunities for those who need right away,” said Marianne Donoghue, Senior Director of Talent Programs at LIFT.

These CDBS CARES Act funded Regional Talent Innovation Grants provide funds to eligible economic development organizations or other nonprofits to administer training programs that target growth in specific occupations in high demand from regional employers. These training programs focus on low- to moderate-income individuals, particularly those living in geographically disadvantaged areas.

“Talent is the key to unlocking the success of our employers and we are proud to be working with LIFT through this Regional Talent Innovation Grant to provide Wayne County residents economic opportunity in critically in-demand fields,” said Kerry Ebersole Singh, Chief Talent Solutions and Engagement Officer at MEDC. “We are committed to creating a culture of lifelong learning here in Michigan, while investing in programs and opportunities like these that will help our workforce prepare today for the jobs of tomorrow.”

Wayne County residents interested in participating in the program can contact LIFT at 313-309-9003, at communications@almmii.org, or by visiting at 1400 Rosa Parks Blvd. in Detroit.

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 www.lift.technology or follow on LinkedIn at LIFT or on Twitter @NewsFromLIFT to learn more.