Kettering University is working to underscore its leading role in educating Michigan’s next generation of engineers and innovators by developing cutting-edge curricula in semiconductors, hydrogen fuel and software engineering through these grants.
The MEDC grant funding is just the latest in a broad effort to advance Michigan’s semiconductor, electric vehicle (EV), and mobility sectors, making certain the state remains a leader in advanced manufacturing.
“Kettering University’s experiential educational model has always been focused on developing leaders that will shape the future,” said Dr. Robert K. McMahan, president of Kettering University. “This funding accelerates our ability to prepare Michigan’s workforce while enhancing our capacity to equip it with the critical skills and hands-on experiences necessary to thrive in industries that will define the economy of the state for decades.”
MEDC awarded Kettering four distinct grants as part of its Higher Education Strategic Initiatives:
- Semiconductor Curriculum Development ($320,882): Supporting the expansion of courses and resources designed to meet Michigan’s growing need for semiconductor expertise.
- Hydrogen Fuel Curriculum ($354,202): Creating innovative programs focused on the future of hydrogen fuel technologies, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and knowledge for cutting-edge industries.
- Software Engineering Curriculum ($287,432): Enabling the development of new courses and acquiring specialized equipment to prepare students for careers in software development and advanced systems.
- PK-12 Engagement ($53,324): Launching summer hackathon camps to engage young students in engineering and advanced manufacturing through hands-on learning experiences. These programs are designed to inspire the next generation of talent and provide pathways to real-world careers in high-demand fields.
The program also helps retain top engineering talent in the state by offering $10,000 incentives for students who commit to a full-time position, staying in Michigan for at least one year after graduation.
“We’re excited about the continued partnership with Kettering University to nurture and develop the next generation of mobility professionals who can pursue opportunities in Michigan that offer higher-paying jobs and career advancement while at the same time building a strong pipeline of future Michigan mobility leaders,” said Kerry Ebersole Singh, MEDC executive vice president, chief of talent solutions and engagement officer. “The MEDC Talent Solutions division is committed to creating stronger pathways to 21st-century careers that will help cultivate, attract, and retain young talent while showcasing Michigan as a hub for a future-ready workforce essential to building a stronger economy.”
The MEDC’s Talent Solutions division consortium of EV/mobility and semiconductors partners includes more than 20 major employers and national industry groups, 17 higher education partners, and workforce and PK-12 leaders across Michigan.
The MEDC grants to Kettering are part of a combined nearly $30 million the MEDC has invested with Michigan’s higher education institutions that are working with advanced manufacturing employers to design and deliver a curriculum preparing students for in-demand mobility-related careers.
These grants provide the university with resources to further enhance its renowned educational Co-op model through June 2026.
The $1.6 million in funding, including the Michigander Scholars Program, enables the University to expand Michigan’s talent pipeline and drive long-term economic growth in key industries.
Kettering University is also launching an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices, an industry-driven program designed for students ready to lead in the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry.
Built for those who thrive in demanding, hands-on environments, this program maintains Kettering’s high academic standards while delivering an efficient, immersive path to industry leadership.
Kettering is also launching an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices, an industry-driven program designed for students ready to lead in the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry.
Built for those who thrive in demanding, hands-on environments, this program maintains Kettering’s high academic standards while delivering an efficient, immersive path to industry leadership.
Every modern technology — from smartphones to medical devices, electric vehicles to national defense systems — relies on semiconductors.
Yet, the U.S. faces a critical shortage of engineers and scientists with the expertise to power the industry’s next chapter.
With global semiconductor supply chains under strain and the CHIPS and Science Act injecting billions into reshoring semiconductor manufacturing, the demand for highly skilled semiconductor professionals is skyrocketing.
Industry leaders predict tens of thousands of new, high-paying jobs will emerge in the coming years, yet there are not enough trained experts to fill them.
That’s where Kettering comes in.
“Kettering University’s educational model was built for industry, and the design of our new bachelor’s degree in semiconductors is a natural extension of that legacy,” McMahan said. “This is the first accelerated STEM degree of its kind and a high-intensity path designed to prepare students to lead in the semiconductor revolution.
“It provides students an opportunity to master the science and engineering of semiconductors faster while also preserving the deep industry engagement that defines a Kettering education.”
©2025 Advance Local Media LLC. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
