Mott Community College and Lurvey Construction Empower Youth with Hands-On Workforce Training

In the heart of Genesee County, Michigan, a promising collaboration is taking shape between Mott Community College’s Youth Build program and Lurvey Construction. Together, they are paving the way for young adults to gain invaluable hands-on experience in construction trades at the site of a future advanced manufacturing facility. This initiative, supported by local businesses and institutions, represents more than just skill-building—it’s a gateway to sustainable careers, economic revitalization, and personal empowerment.

Building Futures at the Intersection of Education and Industry

Youth Build, a program tailored for individuals aged 18 to 24, is redefining the trajectory of workforce development in the region. Designed to equip young adults with skills in high-demand sectors such as health care, manufacturing, and construction, the initiative marries classroom learning with practical, on-site training. At the heart of this effort is a partnership with Lurvey Construction, a company that has embraced its role as a mentor to the next generation of skilled workers. The collaboration centers on a 1,000-acre site that will soon house an advanced manufacturing facility, a project spearheaded by the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance.

Participants in Youth Build are not merely students—they are active contributors to the development of the site. Under the guidance of industry professionals, these young adults are learning the intricacies of construction, from foundational techniques to advanced applications. Their efforts are supported by stipends, ensuring that financial barriers don’t obstruct their path to success. The program costs, jointly covered by Mott Community College and Lurvey Construction, underscore a shared commitment to investing in the future of both individuals and the community at large.

The partnership is emblematic of a broader shift in workforce training, one that prioritizes real-world experience alongside traditional education. By working directly with local businesses, Youth Build participants gain exposure to the demands and expectations of their chosen fields, bridging the often-daunting gap between academic preparation and professional readiness. For many, the program is more than a stepping stone—it’s a lifeline to a stable, well-paying career.

The advanced manufacturing facility itself represents a beacon of economic potential for Genesee County. With the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance orchestrating preparations for the site, the project is poised to attract investment, create jobs, and enhance the region’s economic landscape. The alliance’s involvement highlights the interconnectedness of education, industry, and community development, each element reinforcing the other in a cycle of growth and opportunity.

Beyond the immediate benefits of skill acquisition and job placement, Youth Build is fostering a sense of agency and purpose among its participants. For young adults who may have faced barriers to employment or education, the program offers a chance to rewrite their narratives. The experience of contributing to a project as significant as the advanced manufacturing facility instills not only technical expertise but also confidence and pride—qualities that are essential for long-term success.

This initiative also serves as a model for other communities grappling with workforce shortages and economic challenges. By leveraging partnerships between educational institutions, businesses, and economic alliances, regions can cultivate a pipeline of skilled workers while addressing broader societal needs. The success of Youth Build demonstrates the power of collaboration in achieving these goals, showing that when stakeholders unite around a shared vision, the results can be transformative.

As the advanced manufacturing site begins to take shape, it stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Genesee County. The young adults who are learning and working there are not just building a facility—they are laying the foundation for their own futures, as well as the future of their community. In this endeavor, the lines between education, industry, and personal growth blur, creating a tapestry of progress that is as inspiring as it is impactful.

The story unfolding in Genesee County is one of hope, ambition, and renewal. It’s a reminder that investments in people—particularly young people—yield dividends that extend far beyond the immediate horizon. For the participants of Youth Build, the construction site is more than just a workplace; it’s a proving ground, a classroom, and a launchpad for dreams. And for the community, it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when vision meets action.