GM Preps $30M Workforce Training Program

General Motors outlined a $30-million program of workforce training initiatives for employees at its Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kan., to prepare for new vehicle programs and “to ensure our people stay at the cutting edge of advanced manufacturing,” according to the automaker.

It’s unknown if the automaker plans to initiate similar programs at other locations.

According to GM, its strategy is to support current and future employees with K‑12 STEM/STEAM education and apprenticeship programs, tuition assistance, and advanced technical on-the-job training.

The training is keyed to Fairfax Assembly plant’s planned transition from currently producing electric vehicles to future addition of internal combustion engine vehicle programs. Currently, Fairfax produces the Chevrolet Bolt EV, and will be the site of the internal combustion engine Chevrolet Equinox starting in 2027.

It’s also the destination of a Buick compact SUV that GM is onshoring from its SAIC General Motors joint-venture operation in China.

Last summer, General Motors included the Kansas City plant among a series of capital projects that it now projects at $5.5 billion.

The plant had about 2,200 workers prior to a round of layoffs totaling 900, last October.

GM did not detail the specific training efforts or schedule. In its announcement, it offered that the plan involves “upskilling team members for more advanced roles as technology evolves; cross‑training that builds flexibility between EV and ICE production; (and) safety, quality and launch‑readiness training to ensure every vehicle is one customers love”.

“The investment in people isn’t just about preparing for the production of new vehicles; it’s about giving our people the opportunity to build a future their families can be proud of,” according to Fairfax Plant Director Michael Youngs.