Feb 2, 2023 - News

Jobs, jobs, jobs: Detroit's $100M for training programs

Mayor Mike Duggan discusses job training programs at city hall.

Mayor Mike Duggan talks about $100 million in adult scholarships. Photo: City of Detroit/Flickr

The city's new $100 million scholarship program is a little different than others — it offers job training for Detroiters who aren't going to college.

  • The program is for people who struggle with reading, don't have a high school diploma, need a job or want a better-paying position.

Why it matters: There are about 8,900 jobs available in Metro Detroit and half don't require a college degree, Mayor Mike Duggan said earlier this week when announcing the program.

Driving the news: Over the next two years, the city is spending $100 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds on these scholarships for Detroiters:

  • Learn to Earn: Get paid $10/hour to improve reading skills if you're below an eighth-grade level.
  • High school diploma: Also pays $10/hour to earn a diploma or GED. Available to Detroiters initially scheduled to graduate in 2020 or earlier.
  • Skills for Life: Work a city job three days a week while training for jobs in trucking, health care and other fields the other two days.
  • Career training: Join one of the city's 50 training programs — 20 are paid — at no cost.
  • Jump Start: Job training and mentorship for those who have been unemployed for at least six months.

Of note: Many employers involved in the city's programs are "background friendly," meaning past criminal offenses or current marijuana use may not prevent employment.

  • The city is hosting four scholarship fairs for those interested, beginning Thursday from 10am - 2pm at 18017 E. Warren.
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