Ann Arbor SPARK and WCC Partner to Identify and Address Training Needs

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Feb. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ann Arbor SPARK and the Washtenaw Community College Workforce Development department have joined forces to identify and address the training needs of area businesses in new and innovative ways.

Representatives from SPARK, WCC, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation will visit 100 companies this year. This is the first time the three organizations have partnered in such a direct and collaborative way. The goal of the collaboration is to retain businesses in the region by raising their awareness of employee development resources available locally.

"This marks the transition into a more collaborative approach between SPARK, MEDC, and WCC," said Paul Krutko, Ann Arbor SPARK president and CEO. "This synergy will enhance the skilled workforce in our region and provides a development resource for growing businesses."

"The College is in an excellent position to develop and adapt programs to fit the specific needs of our business colleagues," said Dr. Rose B. Bellanca, president of Washtenaw Community College. "I believe this is a great opportunity for all of us."

Amy Cell is senior vice president of Talent Enhancement at Michigan Economic Development Corp. She adds, "We are working overtime to close a critical skills gap preventing us from filling thousands of Michigan job openings. We must create a deep talent pool in order to keep businesses growing here and to attract new ones. This new effort will definitely lend to our efforts."

Ann Arbor SPARK and WCC also will share a part-time client relations specialist who will be responsible for coordinating schedules and setting up company visits.

For more information on the program, contact Ann Arbor SPARK at 734-761-9317 or WCC at 734-677-5087.

ABOUT ANN ARBOR SPARK

Ann Arbor SPARK, a non-profit organization, is advancing the region by encouraging and supporting business acceleration, attraction and retention. The organization identifies and meets the needs of business at every stage, from start-ups to large organizations. Ann Arbor SPARK collaborates with business, academic, government, and community investor partners including the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County, Washtenaw County Michigan Works Agency, the City of Ann Arbor, Bank of Ann Arbor and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. For more information, please call (734) 761-9317 or visit www.AnnArborUSA.org.

ABOUT WCC

Washtenaw Community College is a standout among two-year institutions across the country. With a comprehensive list of technical and liberal arts transfer programs, and a growing catalog of professional development courses for licensing and certificate credentials, WCC is a valued partner in keeping one of the nation's highest degreed communities in step with emerging trends and technology in the workplace.

SOURCE Ann Arbor SPARK