eMacomb - Progress Through Partnerships, Winter 2016

Focus on our future workforce

The Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development recognizes that our current employers are depending on the next generation of our workforce to keep their businesses growing strong.

As such, we have taken on new projects and partnerships to help our youth discuss their passions and pursue educational opportunities that lead to meaningful careers.

In October, we hosted our third annual celebration of Manufacturing Day, a national awareness campaign designed to highlight the high-tech and well-paying jobs offered by the industry. Thanks to 43 area companies that opened their doors, 1,772 students from all of Macomb County’s 28 high schools got to see the industry in action and meet people who make things.

On Jan. 12, Macomb County hosted its first ever Design Days – a series of hands-on events where 9th and 10th graders can learn about STEM careers. In partnership with Lanse Creuse Schools, Macomb Intermediate School District, Waltonen Engineering and Women In Defense - Michigan Chapter, Part I of Design Days introduced students to technologies and careers in the virtual space of modeling and simulation and software engineering programs. Organizations that participated in the event, hosted at DC3S in Sterling Heights, included General Dynamics Land Systems, BAE Systems, TARDEC, Waltonen Engineering, Wyle and RAVE CAVE. A group of 60 students participated and were given 15 minutes at each station to immerse themselves in the technology and ask career-focused questions. (Photo courtesy of Wyle.)

Part II of Design Days will be planned in the spring and will introduce these same students to the manufacturing environment after it has been designed and engineered to be built. We are actively recruiting manufacturing-based companies who would like to participate.