By: Deborah Johnson Wood
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced last week that a $219,000 grant was awarded to one West Michigan manufacturer to upgrade the skills of 656 current employees and 56 new hires. Grand Haven-based GHSP secured the funds to underwrite costs associated with cutting-edge training in advanced automotive and manufacturing capabilities for its employees.
As Michigan manufacturers fight to transform their businesses to compete in the global economy, the need to train their workers in new manufacturing methods, lean processes, and other skills is an urgent necessity and a growing expense.
“One of Michigan’s strongest assets in attracting new business investment is our high-skilled, adaptable workforce,” Governor Jennifer Granholm said. “Providing employees with the opportunity to get additional training will help Michigan companies remain competitive in today’s global marketplace and continue to create jobs in the state.”
The grant money is made available through the MEDC’s Economic Development Job Training fund.
Two other Michigan companies in Southfield and Adrian also received training grants. The MEDC expects that the grants will create 356 new jobs and retain 731 existing jobs statewide.
Deborah Johnson Wood is the development news editor for Rapid Growth. She can be contacted at [email protected].
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.