What's Happening?
North Central Michigan College is set to enhance its skilled trades and dental hygiene programs with nearly $6 million in funding from the state of Michigan, as part of the fiscal year 2027 budget. This funding, pending the signature of Governor Gretchen
Whitmer, includes $3.465 million for the Skilled Trades Education Pathways (STEP) Center and $2.5 million for a dental hygiene clinic. The STEP Center will expand the Martin Jahn Technology Center by 10,000 square feet, enhancing training in manufacturing, engineering technology, and construction trades. The dental hygiene initiative will establish an instructional space and community clinic, with the program expected to launch in fall 2028. This investment aims to align the college's academic offerings with regional workforce needs.
Why It's Important?
The funding is crucial for addressing workforce shortages in Northern Michigan, particularly in skilled trades and dental hygiene. By expanding educational facilities and programs, North Central Michigan College will be better equipped to prepare students for careers in high-demand fields, thereby supporting local economic growth. The investment reflects the state's confidence in the college's ability to meet regional workforce demands, ensuring that Northern Michigan remains a viable place for students to build careers and for employers to find skilled talent. This initiative also positions the college as a key player in regional economic development.
What's Next?
With planning approval secured, the college will proceed with preparing construction plans for the STEP Center and securing the necessary local funding match. The dental hygiene program is awaiting final approvals from the Commission on Dental Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Once these approvals are obtained, the college will move forward with launching the program, making it the only provider of dental hygiene education north of Big Rapids. These developments will likely attract more students to the college and strengthen its role in regional workforce development.
