SME is a nonprofit organization that represents the North American manufacturing industry, and its PRIME program partners with schools all over the country to help prepare students for careers in manufacturing and engineering. Earlier this year, it was launched at West Ottawa High School in Holland, the 34th school in Michigan to have the program.
This year’s programs are funded by a $6 million dollar public and private partnership between SME and the state of Michigan. The program is expected to expand to an additional 16 schools throughout the state in 2024. By then, roughly 50% of SME PRIME’s programs will be in the state of Michigan.
Students in the program receive hands-on training in high-demand skill sets including machining and fabrication, and have the unique opportunity to learn using state-of-the-art equipment used by today’s manufacturing workers.
Since the program began at West Ottawa, several students have earned Industry Recognized Credentials which help future employers validate their skills and knowledge.
Leaders with the school district say that, thanks to SME’s grant, it has created opportunities for their metals and advance metals students to have genuine experiences, and gives them an edge when educating their students in real-world scenarios.
