A trade education center being built in Grand Rapids, Mich., will provide a setting for students to learn construction skills.
The Associated Builders and Contractors Western Michigan Chapter and The West Michigan Construction Institute are partnering to construct a center focused on developing skilled construction professionals in Grand Rapids, reports Grand Rapids Business Journal.
The building will have classrooms, a construction lab and meeting rooms, a commons area, and offices.
The school will have daytime high school programming that will be coordinated with and through area high schools and community-wide training programs. Evening classes will be focused on apprentices and enhancing the skills of those already employed in the industry.
The institute is designed to be a hub for talent recruitment, development and placement for the West Michigan commercial construction industry.
Students can enroll in programs including construction core, carpentry, electrical, interior finishes and plumbing, as well as pursue certifications or professional development in additional specialties. The length of each program ranges from weeklong certification trainings to multiyear apprenticeship and craft training programs.
The electrical program is a partnership with Grand Rapids Community College. It will move its more than 400 students enrolled in electrical apprenticeships to the center beginning in January.
Construction is expected to be completed in December.
Dan Vos Construction is the contractor.
