Washtenaw Community College (WCC) will use a $630,876 state grant to add robotic welders, hands-on training, and a new ship repair certificate to its welding program, preparing workers for maritime, shipbuilding, defense, and advanced manufacturing jobs.
The grant comes from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity-Workforce Development (LEO-WD). It will fund the proposed Marine Structural Welding and Ship Repair Certificate, a stackable credential for careers in shipbuilding, vessel repair, and maritime manufacturing. It will also expand WCC’s training in robotic welding and pipe fabrication. The effort is part of a statewide strategy to address workforce shortages.
According to LEO-WD, the U.S. Navy anticipates needing more than 140,000 skilled maritime and advanced manufacturing workers over the next decade to support its shipbuilding plans, including submarines and other vessels critical to national defense.
“We are proud to expand our exceptional welding program into a specialized field with statewide and national significance,” said WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “Through collaboration with the state and industry partners, we are preparing graduates for high-demand careers in Michigan’s maritime, shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing industries.”
The first cohort of students is expected to enroll in fall 2027, and the program is expected to serve 60 to 100 students a year. WCC will work with Michigan Works! Southeast, the Michigan Boating Industries Association, ND Defense, and other partners to guide curriculum, support student recruitment and work-based learning, and connect graduates with jobs.
WCC is home to Michigan’s largest welding lab and has produced six WorldSkills welding competitors, more than any other U.S. institution. Most recently, WCC student Mikala Sposito earned a bronze medal at the international WorldSkills competition in September.
Enrollment in the Welding Technology program has grown 37% over the past two academic years. To keep up with demand, the college offers welding courses seven days a week for traditional students and working adults.
For more information about Washtenaw Community College, visit wccnet.edu.
