|
After years of planning and dreaming, the M-TEC Center at Henry Ford Community College (HFCC) is a reality! Located at 3601 Schaefer Rd. in Dearborn Michigan the new M-TEC Center was officially opened on April 12, 2002. Being heralded as a visionary workforce development partnership, the M-TEC will specialize in training programs for high-wage, high-skill, high-demand occupations. This M-TEC, one of 18 around the state, was dedicated to the six men who lost their lives in the February 1, 1999 Rouge Plant explosion. They were all apprentice graduates from HFCC. A handsome bronze dedication plaque was unveiled before the ribbon cutting ceremony. The inscription reads: “All educational opportunities of this facility are dedicated to the six UAW Local 600 Skilled Tradesman who lost their lives as well as those injured in the February 1, 1999, Ford Rouge Powerhouse explosion. Their working lives reflected the value of continuous learning. May their commitment to technical training forever be an inspiration to the students who enter this building.” The M-TEC is expected to serve up to 1,000 trainees each year. Programs will include an open-entry, open-exit design, so that workers can learn the skills they need in a timely, cost-effective manner. Use of various distance learning approaches, such as web-based and interactive video instruction will be utilized in this 5-million dollar facility (the largest amount awarded in the state to an M-TEC) by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “M-TECs represent the vitality of the state and what is to come in the future” said Cindy Ballard, Managing Director for Business Productivity Services at the MEDC. HFCC President, Dr. Andrew A. Mazzara, thanked everyone involved for their efforts and cooperation in this large undertaking. He concluded by saying “This is a wonderful opportunity for our region.” For more information about M-TEC Centers, please visit: http://medc.michigan.org/miadvantage/education/mtec/ |
 Unveiling the dedication plaque are (left to right) James Pidilla, Ford Vice President of North American Operations; Jerry Sullivan, Chairman of UAW Local 600; and Dr. Andrew A. Mazzara, HFCC President. |
Return to Working Together main page
Return to Main Table of Contents