Michigan Works! Southwest will play a key role in implementing a new initiative to train workers for clean energy jobs and help lower energy costs for residents in two counties in Southwest Michigan.
The U.S. Department of Energy recently awarded the State of Michigan $35.7 million from the Inflation Reduction Act’s Transmission Siting and Economic Development (TSED) Grant Program. As part of this award, Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) will provide specialized education and training through electric utility registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, as well as training for electric vehicle infrastructure construction and installation. LEO will also create and invest in a low-income energy fund to support a residential weatherization program and provide utility stipends to families living near a new interstate new transmission line.
To implement this program, LEO will partner with Michigan Works! Southwest to identify workforce development programs for eligible individuals and provide energy assistance for families in need in Branch and Calhoun counties. The program will also support career and training services, public assistance programs, high school diploma/equivalency services, vocational rehabilitation services, and housing assistance.
“Michigan Works! Southwest’s partnership with the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity in this endeavor will result in the creation of high-quality jobs that transform the lives of workers and enrich the communities in Branch and Calhoun counties,” said Jakki Bungart-Bibb, director of Michigan Works! Southwest.
The Upjohn Institute’s Center for Workforce Innovation and Solutions serves as the administrator for Michigan Works! Southwest.