KCC Offering Free Forklift and Electrical Training for Battle Creek Residents Starting October 12

Kellogg Community College (KCC) is offering Battle Creek area residents a chance to gain valuable workforce skills—completely free of charge.

Through the college's STEP UP initiative, eligible residents can enroll in free forklift and electrical training programs designed to prepare participants for careers in manufacturing and skilled trades.

The programs begin October 12 at KCC's Regional Manufacturing Technology Center, located at 405 Hill Brady Road in Battle Creek.

Two Training Programs Available

Forklift Training Program

The five-week Forklift Training Program runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., October 12 through November 12.

Participants will learn safe forklift operation techniques, how to avoid injury and property damage, communication and teamwork skills, problem-solving in workplace settings, and workplace safety protocols. Students may earn Lockout/Tagout certification through this program.

Electrical Production Operator Training Program

The eight-week Electrical Production Operator Training Program runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., October 12 through December 2.

Participants will study electrical fundamentals, industrial trades mathematics, workplace skills and safety, career coaching and job-readiness training, and resume development and interview preparation. Students may earn OSHA certification through the training initiative.

Why These Programs Matter

Both programs focus on preparing participants for manufacturing careers, including work connected to electric vehicle production and industrial operations—growth industries in Michigan.

These training programs are about creating opportunities for Battle Creek residents while strengthening our local workforce. Through STEP UP, participants receive industry-recognized training, personalized career coaching and support that prepares them for in-demand careers in manufacturing and skilled trades.

What is Included

Participants in both programs receive comprehensive support including industry-recognized training from experienced instructors, workplace success instruction to prepare for employment, financial literacy training to build money management skills, resume and interview assistance to help land jobs, personalized career coaching including academic advising, goal setting support to map out career paths, barrier assistance to overcome obstacles to success, and job placement help to connect with employers.

Who Qualifies

The programs are designed for eligible Battle Creek residents seeking careers in manufacturing and skilled trades. Space is limited and the programs typically fill quickly, so interested residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

How to Apply

Interested residents must contact KCC by 5 p.m. September 3 to apply.

Contact Information:
Phone: 269-565-2828
Online: Complete an interest form through KCC's STEP UP program website

Important Dates:
Application Deadline: September 3 at 5 p.m.
Program Start Date: October 12
Program Location: Regional Manufacturing Technology Center, 405 Hill Brady Road, Battle Creek

About KCC's STEP UP Initiative

The STEP UP initiative is part of Kellogg Community College's commitment to workforce development and community support. The program helps residents gain skills while supporting local employers who need trained workers.

By offering these programs at no cost, KCC is removing financial barriers that might prevent residents from accessing career-changing education and training.

Career Opportunities After Training

Graduates of these programs can pursue careers in manufacturing and production, electric vehicle production facilities, industrial operations, warehouse and logistics, electrical trades, and material handling.

With industry-recognized certifications and comprehensive training, graduates will be well-positioned for employment in growing sectors of Michigan's economy.

Do Not Miss This Opportunity

Free workforce training is a rare opportunity. If you or someone you know in the Battle Creek area is looking to start or advance a career in manufacturing or skilled trades, this is a chance to gain valuable credentials at no cost.

Remember—the application deadline is September 3 at 5 p.m., and space is limited. Contact KCC today to secure your spot.

Kellogg Community College
Phone: 269-565-2828
Website: kellogg.edu
Location: Regional Manufacturing Technology Center, 405 Hill Brady Road, Battle Creek, MI

Frequently Asked Questions

What training programs is KCC offering for free?
KCC is offering a five-week Forklift Training Program and an eight-week Electrical Production Operator Training Program, both starting October 12. Both programs are available at no cost to eligible Battle Creek residents through the STEP UP initiative.

When and where are the programs held?
Both programs run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at KCC's Regional Manufacturing Technology Center, located at 405 Hill Brady Road in Battle Creek. The forklift program runs October 12 through November 12, while the electrical program runs October 12 through December 2.

What certifications can I earn?
Participants in the forklift program may earn Lockout/Tagout certification, while those in the electrical program may earn OSHA certification. Both programs provide industry-recognized training valued by employers.

Who is eligible for these free programs?
The programs are designed for eligible Battle Creek residents seeking careers in manufacturing and skilled trades. Contact KCC at 269-565-2828 or complete the online interest form to determine eligibility and apply.

How do I apply and when is the deadline?
Interested residents must contact KCC at 269-565-2828 or complete an online interest form through the college's STEP UP program by 5 p.m. on September 3. Space is limited, so early application is encouraged.

Source: Battle Creek Enquirer