Kalamazoo Valley to Host October 3 Skilled Trades Expo

In celebration of National Advanced Manufacturing Week, Kalamazoo Valley Community College’s Advanced Technology Center is hosting an October 3 Skilled Trades Expo. Projections show Michigan will experience a professional trades workforce gap with more than 545,000 job openings through 2026 due to retiring baby boomers and the emergence of new technologies.

During the expo at the Texas Township Campus, prospective students will learn about automotive technology, chemical technology, electrical technology, HVAC, engineering, design and manufacturing technology, welding technology and training for other skilled trades and technical careers – all available through Kalamazoo Valley. There will also be free food, door prizes and free parking.

The event will include:
• Tours of the professional and skilled trades labs
• Hands-on skills demonstrations
• Time to talk with employers and instructors
• An opportunity to meet with industry leaders
• Observing classes while in session
• Learning about financial aid, internships and apprenticeships

“A career in the professional trades lets you leverage your talents, work ethic and know-how to do things that matter -- to help design and build our future in jobs that are vital to keeping Michigan healthy, strong and growing,” said Dean of Instruction for Math, Science and Health, Dr. Paige Eagan. “And while you are making a difference in the workforce, you have the potential to bring home the kind of paycheck that will make a difference for you and your family.”

Welding instructor Erick Martin said visitors to the college’s Advanced Technology Center are always impressed with the cutting edge equipment. He’s glad to have an opportunity to show Kalamazoo Valley’s labs off to the community and is eager to talk about the many benefits of pursuing a career in the skilled trades. “For years and years, people were told not to go into the skilled trades,” said Martin, who has taught at the college for 23 years. “Now, we’re the saving grace of the economy.”

Martin is confident graduates of his program are well prepared for the workforce and he knows welding can open many doors. “Our skill set is broad so for the rest of your career, you have options,” he said. Martin notes that training for skilled trades careers often requires less schooling and less debt than a traditional four-year degree.

For more information about the October 3 expo, visit www.kvcc.edu/skilledtradesexpowww.kvcc.edu.