With local unemployment rates at historical lows, the demand for talent is increasing. This means outstanding opportunities for Barry County youth and young adults. Multiple collaborative initiatives in Barry County are actively moving the needle when it comes to talent development says Travis Alden, President of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce & Economical Development Alliance. For a small community, there's a lot going on.
The Kellogg Advanced Manufacturing Assembly (KAMA) training program has seen three successful cohorts of graduating high school seniors not only gain necessary hard and soft skills, but also employment at local manufacturing firms immediately after completing the program. The KAMA Curriculum which is continually improved by Kellogg Community College staff with collaboration from local stake holders, includes conponets ranging from financial literacy, team work, to hands on math, measurement and safety. The experierce culminates in a multi-week manufacturing simulation capstone that immerses students in a real world manufacturing experience.
Through a new, innovative partnership with West Michigan Works, Barry County will host a KAMA program this fall. This cohort is focused on adults who wish to up-skill for a successful career in manufacturing. This crash course in advanced manufacturing basics will run approximately 5 weeks, from Sept. 3rd through October 10th. Sessions run Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4:30pm at the KCC Fehsenfeld Center in Hastings. Anyone interested in the fall program should contact Tina Wescott at the West Michigan Works office in Hastings. Registration deadline is Friday, August 23rd. West Michigan Works will potentially cover all tuition costs for qualifying applicants, based on eligibility.
