Dr. James M. Smith President at Eastern Michigan University | Eastern Michigan University
Dr. James M. Smith President at Eastern Michigan University | Eastern Michigan University
SkillsUSA Michigan has announced the launch of its Regional Championship Expansion Project at Eastern Michigan University. The initiative aims to enhance regional competition infrastructure for students across Michigan, addressing geographical disparities in access to skill-building and career-enhancing opportunities.
As a leading Career and Technical Student Organization, SkillsUSA Michigan is affiliated with SkillsUSA Inc. and operates under the authorization of the Office of Career and Technical Education at Eastern Michigan University. It serves over 4,500 members annually in industries such as Manufacturing, STEM, Construction, and Transportation.
The project has received support from several stakeholders focused on workforce development and education. These include Ford Motor Company, Ford Philanthropy, RR Donnelley, General Motors Foundation, Michigan Sugar Company, SME Education Foundation, SkillsUSA National Office, Office of Career and Technical Education, and Eastern Michigan University.
The project's main goal is to establish a comprehensive framework for regional competitions that ensures consistency and equitable access. Activities will include increasing the number of regional competitions available to students, implementing training sessions for participants, developing standardized guidelines for competitions, and enhancing connections between industry professionals and educational institutions.
Initially focusing on manufacturing and STEM sectors, Danielle West, SkillsUSA Michigan state director stated: “By strengthening the regional competition infrastructure, we are providing youth development opportunities for more students and investing in the future of Michigan’s skilled workforce at the same time.” She also expressed gratitude towards partners who share their vision for enhancing career and technical education initiatives in Michigan.
SkillsUSA Michigan is part of Eastern Michigan University's GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. The college manages SkillsUSA Michigan through a grant from the state's Office of Career and Technical Education.
For further details about SkillsUSA Michigan or its Regional Championship Expansion Project, contact Danielle West at dwest30@emich.edu.
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