June 28, 2023, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Grand Rapids Community College is partnering with the Michigan Energy Workforce Development Consortium to create a career pathway for energy careers, helping create rewarding opportunities for students and filling vital, in-demand jobs.
The Energy Trades Pathway Program is a stackable, one-year credential program starting in fall 2023, and was created with MEWDC partners including Consumers Energy, DTE, Holland Board of Public Works, InfraSource, and Lewis Tree Service.
Combining credit and non-credit classes, the program offers students the flexibility to explore energy pathways before committing to a specific field.
Students will gain a strong foundation in essential skills applicable to multiple job roles within the skilled trades industry.
The curriculum includes hands-on learning labs, allowing students to apply what they have learned and gain practical experience. Additionally, students will receive comprehensive training in areas such as test preparation for apprentice opportunities, basic electricity, blueprint reading, hand and power tools, project management, and health/endurance training.
"Energy is a field that affects everyone and everything in our communities. We are proud to partner with Consumers Energy and DTE and other employers to build a talented workforce and create a pathway for residents to gain valuable, in-demand skills that will make our community stronger today and long into the future," GRCC President Charles Lepper said.
The partnership between GRCC and the six employer partners addresses a significant workforce gap in West Michigan. Over the next five years, there will be more than 1,500 job opportunities in various energy sectors, including gas operations, heavy equipment operation, electric operations, and line clearance tree trimming.
GRCC's job developers will connect students with potential employers. The starting wages for most positions range from $18 to $42 per hour.
"We're excited about this partnership with Grand Rapids Community College as it addresses specific gaps in Michigan's energy workforce and provides pathways into great careers throughout the energy industry today and into the future," said Sharon Miller, co-chair of MEWDC and Director of Talent Pipeline at Consumers Energy.
Chris HooSang, co-chair of MEWDC and director of Human Resources at DTE Energy, expressed enthusiasm for the program, saying, "Developing win-win partnerships that guide Michiganders to energy careers is at the heart of MEWDC's work, of which DTE Energy is proud to be a part of. The new Grand Rapids Community College program, in collaboration with employer partners, offers great training opportunities to Greater Michigan's eager, diverse talent."
Additional information about the Energy Trades Pathway One-Year Certificate Program at GRCC, is available at grcc.edu/energytrades.