In celebration of Michigan Manufacturing Week, Glen Oaks Community College is proud to recognize the regional employers that have partnered with the college over the past year. Together, they are strengthening Michigan’s manufacturing and mobility sectors. This work is supported through collaboration with Southwest Michigan Works and funding from the Electric Vehicle Jobs Academy (EVJA) Grant and the Going PRO Talent Fund for targeted, employer-driven training.
Between August 13 and September 25, Glen Oaks delivered 14 EVJA training sessions to five employers, reaching 107 employees across Southwest Michigan—all in just six weeks.
Participating companies included:
- American Axle
- XL/Burke Porter
- Morgan Olson
- II Stanley
- DeNooyer Automotive Group
The first four companies—leaders in manufacturing and assembly—focused on expanding skills in robotics, automation, PLC programming, blueprint reading, OSHA 10, and supply chain management. DeNooyer Automotive leveraged the EVJA grant from a leadership and sales standpoint, preparing its team for customer service and workforce changes accompanying the rise of electric vehicles.
Overall, the initiative delivered $287,435 in EVJA-funded training administered in partnership with Southwest Michigan Works—helping regional employers upskill teams for the evolving EV landscape.
“Michigan’s manufacturing and automotive industries are transforming quickly, and Glen Oaks is helping businesses stay ahead of that curve,” said Kristine Stevens, Director of Workforce Development and Community Education. “Our partnerships are about empowering people with the skills they need to thrive in an evolving economy.”
Customized Training, Proven Results
Among the most requested programs this year has been People Leadership—a practical professional-development series for frontline supervisors and emerging managers. Sessions cover performance planning, coaching and counseling, communication, career development, and team-building.
Participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting stronger communication, improved coaching, and practical strategies for motivating employees. These results reinforce Glen Oaks’ commitment to improving productivity, retention, and workplace culture.
Going PRO: Investing in the Future of Manufacturing
Beyond EVJA, Glen Oaks helps employers pursue and utilize Going PRO Talent Fund grants, then delivers the approved training. The college conducts a needs analysis and aligns training outcomes with grant requirements. It also partners with Michigan Works agencies to guide employers through the application and award process.
During the 2024–2025 academic year, Armstrong International, Clark Logic, Kadant Johnson, Fibre Converters, and the City of Sturgis partnered with Glen Oaks on trainings including SolidWorks, Welding, Electrical Fundamentals, OSHA 10, Six Sigma, and Project Management.
“Whether we’re training on-site, on campus, or online, our goal is the same—to help Michigan’s industries grow stronger through education,” said Stevens.
For information on customized training or available grant opportunities, contact Kristine Stevens, Director of Workforce Development and Community Education, at (269) 294-4276 or kstevens@glenoaks.edu
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