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Advanced Manufacturing Program Lets Students Earn While They Learn

LANSING -- High school seniors in Southeast Michigan can gain advanced manufacturing work skills while earning a paycheck through a pilot program offered by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and participating employers.

The Michigan Advanced Technician Training (MAT²) program combines classroom instruction with paid work experience in a three-year, no-cost program in the field of mechatronics, a combination of mechanical engineering, electronics, computer technology and information technology.

Accepted MAT² students will earn an associate's degree at one of two community colleges -- Henry Ford Community College or Oakland 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.

"The MAT² initiative is focused on meeting employers' needs and providing graduates with a direct pathway to employment and career success," said MEDC president and CEO Michael A. Finney. "This is a great opportunity for students to earn an associate's degree at no cost, get paid, gain critical work skills, and end up with guaranteed employment in an in-demand field."

The MAT² participating employers include:
* Benteler Automotive Corp., which develops and produces products for the automotive industry
* Brose, which delivers mechatronic systems and electric drives to automotive manufacturers and suppliers
* Detroit Diesel, which manufactures a complete line of heavy-duty diesel engines, axles and transmissions for the on-highway and vocational market
* Kostal, which develops and manufactures technologically advanced electronic, electro-mechanical and mechatronic products
* ZF, an international supplier of automotive driveline and chassis technology

"The MAT² program is based on the strong employer demand for such occupations in Michigan's growing automotive sector," said Walter Maisel, president and CEO of Kostal North America. "MAT² is a comprehensive, enriching – and well-timed – industrial training initiative for students seeking a challenging and rewarding career."

The deadline to apply for the MAT² program is Friday, Feb. 15. To learn more about the program and the application process, visit here: http://www.mitalent.org/mat2/.

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