Dec. 18, 2020 GRAPIDS, Mich. — Applications are available for young adults looking to gain job skills, educational opportunities and employment counseling through the new Grand Rapids Community College M-TEC Champions program.
The first classes begin Feb. 8, 2021 in the program, which is supported through a $1.18 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.
GRCC is one of 20 colleges in the nation and one of two in Michigan selected for the new program, which will serve people between the ages of 18 and 24.
Students will participate in six weeks of programming to build foundational skills related to career fields, such as math, reading, and writing as well as developing employability skills and exploring potential careers.
Students will then get a closer look at careers in five different sectors: Construction, energy, manufacturing, healthcare and public works.
“This program is intended to help students build in-demand skills to help them immediately, but also long into the future,” said Julie Parks, executive director of GRCC’s Workforce Training program. “This will undoubtedly change lives, and we appreciate the support from our community partners and the U.S. Labor Department to make it happen.”
The program will include two sessions of 40 students, with an eye on boosting those who have faced numerous obstacles to success, including homelessness. Staff members will plan an intensive, holistic approach to providing comprehensive services, building on each student’s unique strengths and experiences.
GRCC M-TEC Champions part of the Labor Department’s Jobs Corps Scholars Program and is aimed at strengthening the connection between workforce development and education. This demonstration project will also provide the Labor Department with insight into ways to improve the effectiveness of the Job Corps program.
People interested in the program must attend a virtual information meeting. Sessions are planned for 10 a.m. on Mondays starting on Jan. 11, 2021. Registration information is available at the M-TEC Champions Program.
The program is free for qualifying students.
Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college -- and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.