Michigan is set to drive its workforce into the future of automotive technology amidst the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced manufacturing needs. Spearheading this pivot, Western Michigan University (WMU), in conjunction with Kellogg Community College (KCC), has announced a significant allocation of funds aimed at developing state-of-the-art learning programs in semiconductors and EVs. The initiative is buoyed by a combined $4.7 million investment from public and private entities. In a statement detailed by WOODTV, Dr. Steve Butt, dean of WMU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, said, "Our hope is that we can actually now bring this to a level, almost an entry-level position for people to understand both things on the electrical vehicle side as well as  semiconductors."

According to details released by the universities, WMU will develop a new $700,000 curriculum with the aid of General Motors. The program is designed to cater to new college students and those currently active in the workforce, ready to get a grip on the increasingly sophisticated sphere of automotive technology. In a curious twist, bolstering the initiative, another major portion, about $3.5 million, will be directed toward Kellogg Community College, revamping its Advanced Manufacturing Assembly Training, aligning closely with Ford's BlueOval Battery Park project in Marshall. Reflected in a statement reported by Mid Michigan Now, Dr. Steven Butt highlighted the expansive vision of the curriculum, suggesting spillover to neighboring states, "So the hope is that we can work from both sides, and then move that curriculum out even further, maybe into the Illinois, Indiana, Ohio areas."

The impetus for this educational shift comes as the automotive industry transitions to cleaner, more sustainable transportation models, putting EVs and advanced battery technologies at the forefront. Michigan's endeavor is timely, with the U.S. government looking to repatriate semiconductor manufacturing. Current WMU engineering student Eliza Eaton sheds light on the current landscape, stating, as cited by Mid Michigan Now, "It's evolving so quickly that it's definitely a challenge to keep up some days."

In the face of a burgeoning "war for talent," as described by Ava Attari, MEDC Director of Higher Education Partnerships, the investment aims to bridge the gap between industry needs and the expertise produced within educational institutions. In an interview detailed by WZZM13, Attari noted the urgency, detailing the review process, "They came to us and they said, 'In order for us to do this type of program, in order for us to meet the needs of the employers, as they've indicated to us, here's the type of equipment we need, here's the type of support we need for the students to be able to thrive in these programs. Here's the type of curriculum we have to develop.'" This forward-thinking investment marks a decisive step in preparing the next generation of Michigan engineers and technicians for the forefront of automotive innovation.