Individuals interested in pursuing an education in a technical field while earning a paycheck from a participating employer are invited to apply for the Michigan Advanced Technician Training (MAT²) program offered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
“The MAT² initiative is focused on meeting employer needs and will equip students with experience and skills they need to succeed in today’s high-tech world,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney.
MAT2 provides students with an opportunity to earn an associate degree at a participating community college, while gaining real-world, hands-on training in the high-tech, in-demand fields of Mechatronics, Information Technology, and Technical Product Design. Participants of MAT2 have their tuition at the community college paid for by an employer, receive a weekly stipend while in school, earn an hourly wage while training on the job, and are guaranteed employment upon successful completion of the program.
The 2014 programs will be held at Henry Ford Community College, Macomb Community College, Mott Community College, and Oakland Community College.
The next application deadline is set for Wednesday, April 30, 2014. Applicants who apply before April 30 will have an opportunity to attend a MAT2 Company Fair at the end of May to help match them with a participating employer.
In order to apply for MAT2, students must first apply for admission and take the COMPASS or Accuplacer test at one of the participating community colleges. Applicants must then submit an online application at www.mitalent.org/mat2, and be sure to include a scanned copy of their placement test scores, along with a resume and any letters of recommendation. Applicants will be notified within one week of their application status and qualifications for the program.
Accepted MAT² students will earn an associate’s degree from a participating community college while they earn a paycheck and gain on the job experience with a participating company. Tuition is paid by the employer and in exchange, the student commits to remaining on the job for at least two years after successful completion of the program.
Kelsey Erne of Warren is a current MAT² student at Oakland Community College and Brose employee. She said the focus on science and math, the style of learning, and the team approach make MAT² a perfect fit for her.
“I cannot say enough good things about this program,” Erne said. “It has given me everything I need to succeed. I am getting paid experience while studying topics I am actually excited about, and looking forward to starting a career in a field that is new and exciting.”
Source: MEDC
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