September / October 2022 MiMfg Magazine 19
Going PRO Talent Fund Dollars Will Soon Be Available for Employer-Driven Training
Talent — locating , training and retaining — remains a top business challenge for manufacturers and the Going PRO Talent Fund has been a critical tool since 2014 . More than $ 55 million will be available to Michigan employers for Fiscal Year 2023 , which begins 10 / 1 / 22 .
What is the Going PRO Talent Fund ?
The Going PRO Talent Fund remains one of the state ’ s most effective resources to combat manufacturing ’ s talent crisis . Funds are awarded to employers to assist with short-term training that fills a demonstrated talent need for both new and incumbent employees .
Eligible Training
Training programs funded by the Going PRO Talent Fund must be short-term and fill a demonstrated talent need experienced by the employer . Training must lead to a credential for a skill that is transferable and recognized by Industry .
• Classroom or customized training
• On-the-job training for new employees
• Training for US Department of Labor ( USDOL ) Registered Apprentices
How Does My Company Apply ?
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity awards funds to employers through Michigan ’ s workforce system , commonly known as the Michigan Works ! network . Michigan Works ! Business Services staff conduct fact-finding sessions with employers to assess their talent and skill gaps , suitable training providers and availability of federal funding sources . 6
Dave Worthams is MMA ’ s Director of Employment Policy . Dave works to expand funding for Going PRO Talent Fund through the annual appropriations process and works with state regulators on the regulatory requirements of the program . He may be reached at 517-487-8511 or worthams @ mimfg . org .
Reimbursement for Training
• Up to $ 2,000 per person for classroom or customized training
• Up to $ 2,000 per person for on-the-job training for new employees
• Up to $ 3,500 per person for USDOL Registered Apprenticeships
Get More ! MMA ’ s Dave Worthams joined the Going PRO Team at the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity for an interactive webinar that revealed new details for this year ’ s Going PRO award cycle .
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