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Wayne County OKs $250,000 to Henry Ford College to expand VR/AR training in career programs
Summary
The county approved a two‑year intergovernmental agreement to fund virtual‑ and augmented‑reality equipment and curriculum expansion at Henry Ford College, aiming to expand training capacity across seven career and technical programs.
The Wayne County Planning & Economic Development Standing Committee voted to approve a two‑year intergovernmental agreement with Henry Ford College to advance the Wayne County Talent Pipeline Initiative by funding virtual‑reality and augmented‑reality (VR/AR) learning equipment and program expansion.
County economic development staff said the Henry Ford College project will receive $250,000, to be used to "support adoption and expansion of virtual reality and augmented reality assisted learning in the career and technical education programs," covering seven programs cited by staff: nursing, radiography, respiratory therapy, mechatronics, electrical technology, civil engineering technology, and plumbing and pipe fitting. Economic development director Hassan Sheikh (presenting) said the funds are proposed to be sourced via a technical amendment to the county appropriation ordinance.
Russ Cavalluna of Henry Ford College and President Cappelluna addressed the committee. President Cappelluna thanked the commission and said the equipment will expand training capacity: "Right now, we're space limited for the equipment that these students need ... with this VR and AR, we can, not only double, but probably triple the capacity in these types of, workforce development programs."
Commissioners discussed coordination across county colleges and workforce programs. County staff noted prior investments (including a large ARPA‑funded workforce project administered by SEMCA and separate investments in Wayne County Community College and Schoolcraft College) and said the colleges coordinate through existing higher‑education associations and other regional bodies. Commissioners asked that the colleges promote dual‑enrollment and outreach to local high schools; staff noted Henry Ford College already operates dual‑enrollment programs with local high schools.
The motion to approve the two‑year agreement for Henry Ford College was made by Commissioner Kinloch and seconded by Commissioner Beydoun. The committee approved the agreement by voice vote.
Why it matters: The funding is intended to increase the supply of trained workers in high‑demand healthcare and skilled‑trades occupations by adding immersive training capacity and reducing equipment/space limits at Henry Ford College. The county framed the award as part of a broader Talent Pipeline Initiative included in the commission budget.
Next steps: County staff will finalize the intergovernmental agreement and work with Henry Ford College on implementation, procurement of VR/AR equipment, and program timelines. The transcript did not specify exact procurement timelines or expected completion dates.
