Orchid Orthopedic Solutions, a world leader in medical device design and manufacturing, has had steady growth in the area over the years and is currently operating at maximum capacity. “We just can’t get anymore out of the people and machinery we have,” says Keith Wasilenski, tax accountant for the company. Luckily, a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant will offer Orchid the funds needed for both machinery expansion and employee training.
The company, and state, has faced a lack of qualified candidates for manufacturing positions over the years, and this grant will give them the funding to provide on the job training. “Schools aren’t pushing manufacturing positions and people are leaving the state,” says Wasilenski. These dollars will take candidates with basic skills and train them to become quality operators.
The grant will specifically benefit Orchid’s Delhi Township plant, contributing to growth and job creation in the Lansing area. 18 of the 35 jobs available will be given to moderate to low income persons.
They have had 10-15% in sales growth and the expansion of machinery and employees is needed to help maintain that growth. “The new machines will operate faster and will increase efficiency.”
Source: Keith Keith Wasilenski, Orchid Orthopedic Solutions
?Author: Allison Monroe, Innovation News Editor
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