State Rep. Doug Wozniak on Monday was proud to join Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro at the announcement of the Michigan Maritime Manufacturing (M3) Initiative. The M3 initiative is a planned partnership between the Navy, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, other federal agencies, state and local governments, and hundreds of defense, labor, and academic entities in Michigan.

“Michigan is already the leader in advance manufacturing in the U.S. It only makes sense that we join with the U.S. Navy in this important defense manufacturing initiative,” said Wozniak, R-Shelby Township. “Given the concerning rise in global threats, I’m proud that Michigan will play a large role in ensuring our Navy has the talent and resources it needs to produce future maritime defense systems. It is an honor for Michigan to play this important role in ensuring our nation remains safe and strong.”

The Navy and the U.S. Department of Education have built relationships with community colleges across Michigan to establish advanced welding and machine training courses. Macomb Community College, Bay College, and Grand Rapids Community College have already agreed to offer courses. More schools are expected to join the effort soon.

Michigan was selected for the program because of its strong manufacturing background. The M3 initiative will bring several meaningful investments across Michigan, including $2 million to generate student interest in technical skills and increase awareness of maritime manufacturing careers, $4.5 million to expand advanced welding education programs, $16 million to implement an accelerated welding and computer numerically-controlled machining training program, $14.5 million to establish the Center for Naval Research and Education at the University of Michigan, and $3 million for an attraction and recruitment campaign focused on Michigan’s manufacturing history.

“This fantastic partnership isn’t just a production contract. The M3 initiative will bring jobs and incredible educational opportunities to Michigan students of all ages,” Wozniak said. “We’re going to inspire elementary students to grow up and build submarines. This funding will allow community colleges to offer students even more quality learning opportunities. The M3 initiative will be life-changing for many Michiganders.”

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