June 14, 2004

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm announced today that 500 employees at the General Motors Technical Center in Warren will benefit from $500,000 in Economic Development Job Training (EDJT) funds provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Workers will receive specialized training in the latest software applications for vehicle design.

“Keeping our workforce on the cutting edge of new technology will help stop the outward flow of manufacturing jobs and galvanize our reputation as the automotive R & D capital of the world,” Granholm said. “GM is making a significant contribution to that effort by upgrading the skills of its engineering and design workforce here in Michigan.”

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 key tools being used to develop a highly trained pool of workers to enhance Michigan’s business-friendly climate.

GM has chosen Oakland Community College to provide the training. Under the requirements of the program, the company will provide a 25 percent funding match.

General Motors, the world’s largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide and employs a total of 355,000 people at all locations. The auto giant continues to invest in Michigan including its world headquarters in Detroit and plants in Warren, Flint, Lansing and Pontiac.

“Our top-notch workforce has been among the strongest factors in retaining GM jobs here in Michigan and encouraging additional investment by the automaker,” said MEDC President and CEO Don Jakeway. “These job training grants help Michigan companies meet the constant demand for tech-savvy workers in an increasingly competitive global market.”

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

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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