LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Those 21 and over, without a college degree, seeking to jump start their career may find great luck in pursuing the new Short-Term Training Program from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP). 

“Every Michigander deserves the opportunity to pursue a degree or certificate to land a good-paying, in-demand job without breaking the bank,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “The Michigan Reconnect Short-Term Training Program will lower costs by offering students up to $1,500 as they pursue a career in health care, technology, manufacturing, and so much more. Together, we will grow our economy by delivering on our promise to ensure every Michigander can ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

Important Student Eligibility Requirements:

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Students can receive a one time scholarship up to $1,500 towards their overall tuition costs. To be eligible for the Short-Term Training Program participants must be: 

  •  21 or older prior to submitting the application
  • A Michigan resident for at least the immediately preceding year
  • A graduate from high school with a diploma or a certificate of completion or achieved a high school equivalency (eg. GED) certificate (must provide a copy of diploma or GED to their training provider)

In addition, participants cannot have earned an associate or bachelor’s degree.

“The Michigan Reconnect Short-Terming Training Program is yet another path for Michiganders to get the skills they need to pursue rewarding careers in high-demand industries,” said Michelle Richard, acting director of MiLEAP. “This program will expand Michigan’s talent pipeline by enrolling 4,000 people in short-term training and help more businesses hire the skilled individuals they need to compete and grow.”

MiLEAP Origins Under Governor Whitmer:

MiLEAP was established in July 2023 under an executive order with several broad goals including the acceleration of the state’s Sixty by 30 goal, wherein the state hopes to increase the number of working age adults with a skill certificate or college degree to 60% by 2030. 

Interested participants in the Short-Term program must submit their applications by Dec. 15, 2024, enroll in an eligible career training program, and begin a career training program prior to Dec. 31, 2024 according to the MiLEAP Office. 

For any additional information, contact Reconnect@michigan.gov.