IAC Helps Schoolcraft College Mold Automotive Plastics Manufacturing Workforce of the Future

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Feb. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to help develop the automotive manufacturing skilled workforce of the future, world-leading vehicle interiors components supplier International Automotive Components (IAC), has donated a $50,000 110-ton Krauss-Maffei injection-molding machine to Schoolcraft College in Livonia, Mich. The plastic component production equipment is being used by the college's Plastics Material and Processing Lab to enhance the Plastic Technology programs. IAC's donated injection-molding machine will provide students with valuable training and experience in operating manufacturing equipment, preparing them for future automotive plastics manufacturing careers.

The injection-molding machine donation was recognized today at Schoolcraft College during an exclusive media tour of the Plastic Technology program lab. The donation supports IAC's commitment to advancing science, technology, engineering and math curricula (STEM) and encouraging students to pursue automotive industry careers.

"With a shortage of skilled-trade workers, we take pride in being invested in the future leaders of our industry," said IAC Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Rick Van Heukelom. "With resources like the injection-molding machine, students will be able to build their strengths and gain hands-on experience to help them become proficient professionals in the manufacture of highly crafted interior components."

IAC presented the injection-molding machine to Schoolcraft College at the Board of Trustees meeting in 2016 and the equipment was delivered to the lab at the end of the spring semester and installed during the summer. The machine is now an integral part of the college's plastic materials and processing and plastics technology skills classes. Other organizations have been supportive of the program, including: Krauss-Maffei Corp.; Milacron; Productive Companies, Inc.; RheTech; and the Detroit section of the Society of Plastics Engineers.

"This donation hones the training skills of our Plastic Technology program students, ensuring the best skill sets and positive employment outcomes," said Dr. Robert Leadley, Dean of Occupational Programs and Economic Development at Schoolcraft College. "We are fully integrating this generous gift into the program and giving our students additional educational pathways for certificates and associates degrees."

ABOUT IAC
International Automotive Components (IAC) is a leading global supplier of automotive components and systems, including interior and exterior trim. The company's 2016 sales were $6.0 (est.) billion. Headquartered in Luxembourg, IAC Group operates 77 manufacturing facilities in 18 countries. The company has around 100 total locations in 21 countries, including 27 design, technical and commercial centers, and employs more than 31,000 people globally. For more information, visit www.iacgroup.com.

ABOUT SCHOOLCRAFT COLLEGE
Schoolcraft College is a public community college, offering classes at and online at www.schoolcraft.edu. The college enrolls more than 30,000 students each year in both credit programs and continuing education and professional development (non-credit) courses. The college has 70 different academic majors and programs leading to a skills certificate, certificate, associate degree, or post-associate certificate. Students can also take advantage of bachelor degree-level courses and programs offered by several university partners onsite or transfer credits to other four-year institutions saving time and money in pursuit of a bachelor's or higher degree.

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SOURCE International Automotive Components (IAC)