Machining Training Helps Job Seeker and Employer

When David Storm started working at Grand Traverse Machine in Traverse City he didn’t have any prior manufacturing work experience. But he did have the knowledge and skills he learned by going through a Basic Machining Training program organized by Northwest Michigan Works!. That training helped Storm move into a new career and helped Grand Traverse Machine address the ongoing challenge of finding enough skilled workers.

“Without having any real life experience in the machining industry I don’t think I would have been able to get in where I am now without the training,” said Storm.

“I think it was huge for us because it brought us a guy who normally we wouldn’t be looking at to hire for the position,” said Mike Alfonso, President, Grand Traverse Machine. “With the training he got he was able to come in and he had a basic understanding of manufacturing and tolerances and some of the other tools you need for this trade.”

Along with the Basic Machining Training Storm was also eligible for the On-the-Job Training program offered through Michigan Works!, which covered part of the cost of his training while he learned the skills needed for his new job.

“The On-the-Job Training has helped significantly,” said Storm. “Real, hands-on experience doing the work is a lot different than reading it out of a book.”

“That was a great program for Dave and for Grand Traverse Machine,” said Alfonso. “There is a cost to training. Any help we can get is a huge plus because it is a very competitive business.”

Alfonso and Storm both encourage other job seekers and employers to utilize the assistance offered by Michigan Works!

“I think Michigan Works has a number of great programs, said Alfonso. “It really does help small manufacturers like us.”