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Batteries

Washtenaw Community College Unveils EV and Battery Lab to Educate Students for Next-Generation Automotive Industry

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Washtenaw Community College (WCC) in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has taken a significant step in preparing students for the emerging workforce in automotive transportation by unveiling its new EV and battery lab. The cutting-edge facility, equipped with lifts, charging stations, and electric battery workbenches, will train students in maintenance and repair of hybrid and electric vehicles. The college has worked closely with industry partners to launch new EV programs and certificates to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in this field. At the ribbon-cutting event, WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca emphasized the importance of the facility, stating that it is "about opening opportunity for our students, our region, and our state." The lab was completed with a Congressional earmark secured by Michigan's delegation in 2023, with U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell highlighting the significance of the $2.5 million in federal funding.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EV and battery lab at WCC will provide students with hands-on training in maintenance and repair of hybrid and electric vehicles.
  • The college has launched new EV programs and certificates in collaboration with industry partners to meet growing talent needs.
  • WCC has secured $2.5 million in federal funding for the lab, with U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell and U.S. Senator Gary Peters highlighting the importance of skilled workers in the EV industry.
  • The college's Advanced Transportation Center, launched in 2014, has prepared over 1,000 students at any given time for next-generation mobility careers.
  • Training at the Center focuses on electric vehicles, batteries, charging infrastructure, semiconductor manufacturing, mechatronics, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
  • WCC offers a wide range of associate and certificate programs, including liberal arts, health care, business, STEM, and advanced transportation.

Statistics:

  • Over $2.5 million in federal funding was secured by Michigan's delegation for the EV Lab.
  • More than 1,000 students are enrolled in 60+ courses in automotive and cybersecurity technologies at WCC's Advanced Transportation Center.
  • The Center has been training students since 2014.
  • WCC offers accelerated and online programs to meet student needs.

Sources:

  • Globe Newswire, "Washtenaw Community College Unveils EV and Battery Lab to Educate Students for Next-Generation Automotive Industry" (October 14, 2025)
  • Washtenaw Community College, "About Us"
  • Congressional earmark secured by Michigan's delegation (2023)

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