LIFT, BBTC partner to provide advanced manufacturing training to veterans

LIFT, the Detroit-based Department of Defense national manufacturing innovation institute, and Big Bend Technical College (BBTC) have announced a partnership to provide free training to transitioning service members, National Guard, Army Reserves, and their families, along with veterans and other civilians, for careers in advanced manufacturing through LIFT’s Operation Next initiative.

Each year, 200,000 service members transition out of the military across the nation, and it is estimated that nearly 2 million advanced manufacturing workers will be needed to fill vacant positions in the U.S. by 2028.

Operation Next provides an accelerated hybrid program that combines online education with hands-on training to earn credentials for in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing. BBTC’s rolling start program will train students in CNC and aluminum welding and fabrication.

“Partnerships like these are critical for Operation Next to have the impact it is designed to have and provide opportunities for our service members and their families,” said Robert Shaner, LIFT’s vice president, talent. “We greatly welcome the opportunity to work with Big Bend Technical College to help these service members and others in the region begin their advanced manufacturing careers.”