MCC to Receive U.S. Department of Commerce $2.51 Million Grant

MCC Downtown Center

Muskegon Community College will receive $2.51 million to renovate the former Muskegon Chronicle buildings into an Applied Technology Center as part of a Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant.

“The Obama Administration is committed to helping communities develop a workforce with 21st century skills,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker. “As part of the Department of Commerce’s ‘Skills for Business’ initiative, this EDA investment announced today will provide vital training and resources for students and entrepreneurs throughout Western Michigan.”

“We are ecstatic about how this award is going to impact our manufacturing and entrepreneurial programs,” stated MCC President Dale Nesbary. “The timing is perfect as we implement our renovation of the former Muskegon Chronicle facility. These funds are going to allow us to improve programs that directly lead to jobs in the West Michigan area. Companies have been requesting a showcase facility that highlights manufacturing education and connects them to the skilled workers they need. This facility will help them accomplish their goals.”

MCC’s allocation of $2.51 million requires an additional $6.47 million in matching funds for a total of $8.98 million. The match is being provided by funds approved by Muskegon County voters to create a downtown Muskegon facility.

The monies will be used to improve and develop programs at the new downtown Muskegon facility. Existing manufacturing programs that will be expanded upon occupancy of the Applied Technology Center include Machining, Welding, Materials/Foundry, Electronics, and CAD (Computer-Aided Design). New programs that will be housed in the facility include Mechatronics/Automation/Robotics and Plastic Technologies. In addition, the Center will house a Fab Lab, which will house equipment for entrepreneurs seeking to turn their ideas into reality.

For more information contact Dan Rinsema-Sybenga, Dean or Workforce & Talent Development, at (231) 777-0569.