Appropriations Requests for : Washtenaw Community College

1. Cosponsoring legislators:

• Sue Shink

Recipient Information

2. Intended legislatively directed spending item recipient:

Washtenaw Community College

3. Physical address of legislatively directed spending item recipient and the intended location of the project or activity:

4800 E. Huron River Drive in Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105

4. The recipient's employer identification number:

381784300

Funding Details

5. Requested amount of the legislatively directed spending item:

$1,500,000.00

6. What is the purpose and how does the legislatively directed spending item provide a public benefit that is an appropriate use of taxpayer money?

Washtenaw Community College (WCC) seeks to establish a comprehensive Workforce Solutions Center (WSC). This initiative will position WCC as a leading catalyst for workforce readiness, economic development, and lifelong learning in Washtenaw County, surrounding areas, and the State of Michigan. The Workforce Solutions Center will serve as a one-stop collaborative hub connecting employers, students, and entrepreneurs. It will bridge educational gaps, support innovation, and foster career advancement through foundational skills training, fast-track job preparation, professional and technological upskilling, customized employer training, industry certification testing, and entrepreneurial support. WCC’s WSC will drive economic growth and business competitiveness, making the College a premier regional partner in workforce development. This proposal directly aligns with Michigan’s 2025 Workforce Development Plan by advancing talent development, business retention, and economic resilience. By funding this initiative, legislators will enable WCC to strengthen partnerships with employers, universities, and workforce agencies, creating a stronger and more adaptable Michigan workforce. Key priorities include differentiating WCC as a forward-thinking workforce innovator, aligning training with real industry needs, expanding employer partnerships, and supporting lifelong learning for adults and career changers. The Center will generate sustainable revenue through flexible training models and credential-based programs reinvested into academic and community services. The Workforce Solutions Center will integrate the following focus areas to ensure comprehensive support: • Assessment and certification testing to measure and enhance workforce readiness. • Training and upskilling programs aligned with employer needs and industry trends. • Competency-based credentials to strengthen employability and advancement. • Entrepreneurship and small business development services. • Employer engagement through customized training, consulting, and job placement support. • Innovation and AI-focused lab resources to drive business and entrepreneurial growth. Investing in the Workforce Solutions Center represents a strategic and high-impact opportunity to advance Michigan’s economic vitality, strengthen its talent pipeline, and position Washtenaw Community College as a national leader in workforce innovation.

7. Has the legislatively directed spending item previously received or been awarded any of the following types of funding in the past 5 years?

No previous funding received

8. Estimated time frame for completion of the legislatively directed spending item project:

The estimated time frame for completion is by the end of fiscal year 2028.

Additional Information For Nonprofit Corporations

9. Is the recipient a nonprofit corporation?

No

Certification By Sponsoring Legislator

• "I certify that my immediate family members, legislative staff members, and I have no direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the requested legislatively directed spending item."
• "I certify that the intended recipient of this legislatively directed spending item is not a for-profit entity."
• "I certify that the information in this form is true to the best of my knowledge."

Senator Jeff Irwin