Detroit Evening Report: Michigan Central offering Detroiters free training for EV tech skills
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An aerial view of Michigan Central Station.
Michigan Central is partnering with two electric vehicle support companies to bring free skills training programs to Detroiters.
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Participants in the program — held in partnership with SAE International, ChargerHelp and the city of Detroit — will receive approximately 120 hours of training on how to repair and build EV charging stations. Those who complete the program can receive new, nationally recognized certification as Electric Vehicle Supply and Equipment Technicians from SAE International, a global professional association and standards organization
Clarinda Barnett-Harrison, director of skills at Michigan Central, says the only requirements to apply are to be a Detroit resident, have a high school diploma and a ninth-grade reading level.
“It’s really a no barrier to entry opportunity. It’s free to the individuals because of the support of the city of Detroit and the State of Michigan who have contributed alongside Michigan Central to ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation.”
Barnett-Harrison says the starting pay for those certified is around $67,000 a year. She says the skills learned are also transferable to other clean energy technician jobs.
Other headlines for Monday, March 18, 2024:
- A new website launched last week will allow people to track financial disclosure information for Michigan’s elected leaders and candidates for office.
- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging Michigan residents to have a family physician as part of Family Medicine Week, recognized in Michigan on March 17-23.
- The city of Detroit’s Skilled Trades Task Force will host its next meeting from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday March 20, at the Laborers’ International Union, 2161 W. Grand Blvd, Detroit.
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