When the academy opens this summer in the First National Building in downtown Detroit, it will offer free in-person and virtual programs.
“The Apple Manufacturing Academy will train businesses across America to implement smart manufacturing techniques that are creating opportunity and shaping the future of technology,” Sabih Khan, Apple’s senior vice president of operations, said in a statement. “Apple is proud to work with suppliers in all 50 states — and starting this summer, we’re excited to work with Michigan State University to expand American manufacturing leadership and help even more companies innovate and grow.”
In February, Apple said it would bring the academy to Detroit as part of the tech company’s commitment to invest in American innovation and advanced manufacturing. The academy will be the first of its kind in the United States, Apple said.
MSU also has a partnership with Apple for its Apple Developer Academy, which has been operating in downtown Detroit since 2021 with support from the Gilbert Family Foundation. The academy has graduated around 200 participants annually. Applications are open for the fall 2025 cohort.
For the manufacturing academy, experts from Apple and MSU will help the companies implement artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing techniques. The curriculum will include training in project management, manufacturing process optimization and leadership skills, aimed at enhancing productivity, efficiency and quality across supply chains. Consulting services will be available virtually and in-person.
“With our strong programs in supply chain, logistics, engineering, and packaging, along with our commitment to be an industry leader in AI advancements, Michigan State is a perfect partner for this new effort, and we greatly appreciate the ongoing collaboration with Apple,” said MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz. “Further, this project perfectly aligns with our mission around community outreach and our desire to solve the world’s problems, and we look forward to working side by side with manufacturing companies to transform this essential industry.”
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