GRCC, Energetx train workers for composites manufacturing
Pete Daly

Grand Rapids Community College will partner with Holland-based Energetx Composites to train workers for entry level jobs in the burgeoning composites industry, the first time that GRCC students are able to train right in a company’s manufacturing plant.

Energetx, a division of S2 Yachts Inc. in Holland, is diversifying into production of wind turbine components made of composites. CEO David Slikkers recently told the Business Journal that the company had already landed a couple of contracts to build tooling for manufacturers of wind turbine nacelles. Energetx has also been pursuing contracts for production of wind turbine blades for mid-size generators, 10 to 20 meters in length.

Certain types of composite materials, typically combining fiberglass and plastic laminates, are used increasingly in a wide range of manufactured products ranging from boats, aircraft parts, manhole covers and light-weight vehicles to wind turbine components.

 “These are the fields where the new jobs are,” said Julie Parks, GRCC Director of Workforce Training, “and these GRCC students will be well-prepared for them.”

The 80-hour intensive training, which begins March 8 in Holland, qualifies for State of Michigan No Worker Left Behind funding. Registration information can be found at grcclearn.com or by calling (616) 234-3400.

 “Energetx has created a composite lab facility for GRCC students’ use and will also share composite expertise with GRCC faculty and staff to support the development of this program. That makes our program truly unique," said  Fiona Hert, Dean of the GRCC School of Workforce Development.

 “The GRCC program will include 20 classroom hours and 20 hours in the lab working with gelcoat, and laminates, as well as learning the chemical process of laminates, the practical application of fiberglass composites, and how to use these material safely – all necessary skills to step right into a job,” said Parks.