With an economic impact in excess of $2.1-billion dollars, and with more than 17,500 people employed in the industry, there should be little doubt about the future impact of manufacturing in Michigan’s Great Southwest thanks to the major new Hanson Technology Center which takes a bow next week for the first time.
Lake Michigan College will celebrate the grand opening of its new Hanson Technology Center next Tuesday, August 23rd and the public is invited to tour the facility and learn more about technology education and career opportunities during an open house from 2 to 6pm that day.
The Hanson Technology Center (HTC) will house LMC’s energy production, engineering, machine tool, mechatronics, skilled trades and welding production programs. It features a Fab Lab, simulation classroom and Virtual Manufacturing Floor with state-of-the-art CNC and robotics equipment.
The center is located on LMC’s Benton Harbor campus on Napier Avenue, and replaces the former M-TEC facility on Klock Road. College officials anticipate the new location will expose more students to technology programs and inspire many to pursue careers in one of southwest Michigan’s most crucial industries.
Dr. Ken Flowers is Dean of Career & Workforce Education for LMC. He tells us, “Manufacturing careers have evolved remarkably with advances in technology, but some people still have outdated ideas about the profession.” He says, “We’ve created a beautiful, bright and modern space where all kinds of students can get excited about transforming ideas into reality. It will be a wellspring for invention and innovation. This is where the next generation of makers are made.”
Manufacturing provides an estimated 17,500 jobs and has a $2.1 billion impact in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties. Nevertheless, a recent report by Kinexus found that area manufacturers are concerned about the lack of available applicants with technical skills.
Dan Mitchell, President of Hanson Mold, says, “This new center will be a major signal that Lake Michigan College stands side-by-side with businesses to create a strong and vibrant manufacturing economy in our region and will play a vital role in attracting and retaining people.”
Construction of the Hanson Technology Center was partially supported by private donations and is named in honor of industrialist Merlin Hanson and his wife Carolyn.
LMC staff and faculty will be available during the open house to help prospective students learn about programs and take steps toward enrolling. Light snacks will be served.
More information about LMC’s technology programs is online at lakemichigancollege.edu/technology. Fall semester registration is open and classes begin September 6. Apply online for free at lakemichigancollege.edu/apply. Contact Admissions at admissions@lakemichigancollege.edu or (269) 927-8626.
