Skilled Trades Education Funding Now Available

When it comes to the topic of education in the U.P., skilled trades is one of the more important aspects. And now, through schools like Gogebic Community College, those who choose that career pathway have an easier route. Governor Rick Snyder says Michigan is continuing to support skilled trades training with a new, $50 million program through the state’s community colleges. The program is part of an effort to close the talent gap, providing skilled-trades training through the newly-created Community College Skilled Trades Equipment Program. The amount is among the highest ever dedicated from a state to community colleges for skilled trades’ job development. Under the program, community colleges can apply for up to $4.8 million. Each award requires the community college to come up with a 25 percent match of the total equipment cost, including installation, renovations and instructor training. The proposal requires collaboration with school districts and a detailed plan on how the additional funding will help to meet employers’ job needs.