Michigan businesses have joined forces to partner with the SME Education Foundation to make available education opportunities for students of Starkweather Academy, part of Plymouth-Canton Community Schools in Plymouth, Michigan. Alpha USA, Clips and Clamps Industries, Link Engineering Company, Loc Performance Products, Inc., Master Automatic Inc., Roush Industries, Inc., and Skyway Precision Inc., have invested in the collaboration formed through SME's Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education (PRIME) schools initiative.

"We are excited for this SME PRIME school in Wayne County and hope there are many more to come," said Warren C. Evans, Wayne County Executive. "What's important about this program is the curriculum is designed with input from employers, which helps ensure we're connecting students with viable career pathways as the manufacturing industry evolves. The primary barrier to growth in manufacturing is a talent shortage, and this program will help strengthen the pipeline to fill those gaps."

"The launch of this partnership underscores our commitment to preparing students for future careers in manufacturing, an area which is currently experiencing a talent shortage," said Monica L. Merritt, Superintendent of Plymouth-Canton Community Schools. "The support we've received from our business community and local leaders has been phenomenal, and we are all encouraged by the prospect of preparing our talented students to thrive in our local business communities."


"SME PRIME schools are central to our commitment to inspiring, preparing and supporting young people," said Rob Luce, SME Education Foundation vice president. "We're proud to now include Starkweather Academy students in the SME PRIME schools' initiative as we continue to expand the program across the country."