June 28, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm announced today that 140 workers at Martinrea Industries, Inc. in Clare will benefit from a $14,949 Economic Development Job Training (EDJT) grant provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Thirty-three of the workers will receive specialized training in technical processes, management skills and equipment operation, which will make the company more competitive in the global economy.

“Keeping worker skills current is absolutely essential if we want the manufacturing sector in our state to prosper,” Granholm said. “By equipping many of Martinrea’s workers with specialized skills, the company will become more competitive and thus bring additional job security to its entire workforce.”

In her 2004 State of the State address, Governor Granholm announced a focused, seven-point plan for economic growth. Strengthening Michigan’s workforce is part of that plan. Job training is one of the tools being used to assure a highly trained pool of workers to enhance Michigan’s business-friendly climate.

Martinrea has chosen Mid Michigan Community College in Mount Pleasant to provide the training. Under the requirements of the program, the company will provide a minimum 25 percent funding match.

Formerly known as Pilot Industries, Martinrea Industries is a division of Martinrea International, Ontario. The company specializes in the production of metal parts, assemblies and fluid management systems primarily for the automotive industry.

Since 1994, more than $260 million in EDJT grants have helped more than half a million Michigan workers improve their skills and enhance the competitiveness of their employers.

“Michigan’s success was built on the achievement of our manufacturing workforce,” said MEDC President and CEO Don Jakeway. “Continuing to support our workers with the skills training they need to compete will ensure that Michigan will continue to maintain its hard-earned legacy into the 21st century.”

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life. For more information about the MEDC, please visit our Web site at www.michigan.org.

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