Targeted recruitment efforts and strategic partnerships can drive significant progress in the EV industry, paving the way for future advancements and opportunities. LG Energy Solution Michigan, Inc., a prominent player in the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry, has made strides in enhancing its workforce through the Talent Acquisition Team Electric Vehicle program. This initiative, a collaboration between the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and West Michigan Works!, is aimed at recruiting and upskilling workers for the burgeoning EV manufacturing sector.
Holland-based LG Energy Solution has long been a leader in advanced battery technology. With a strong foundation of 30 years in the industry, the company recognized the need to expand its workforce to meet growing demand. This led them to the TAT EV program, designed to bolster recruitment and training efforts.
The TAT EV initiative is part of a broader effort by the MEDC and WMW! to address the talent needs of Michigan’s EV sector. As part of this program, LG Energy Solution Michigan has been actively working to fill new production roles at their plant, which is a key player in the production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and other applications.
West Michigan Works! has been instrumental in supporting LG Energy Solution through strategic recruitment efforts expected to fill crucial roles in production and contribute to the company’s growth.
“Having created the first integrated workforce development system in the country, Michigan has long been a leader among the nation’s workforce systems,” said West Michigan Works! COO Angie Barksdale. “Our team works with economic development and community college partners across the region to offer workforce support and training dollars for business expansion or attraction projects, which bring new jobs to West Michigan,” Barksdale said. “Regional collaboration and problem-solving address talent, curriculum and advocacy issues on a broader level, resulting in a larger skilled labor pool and increased job placements.”
Through the TAT EV program, LG Energy Solution Michigan has aimed to recruit and onboard 1,000 workers for its Holland facility. The program’s highlight is a special military, veteran and spouse recruitment drive. The campaign features “Military Makeover – Operation Career,” hosted by Montel Williams. This program was broadcasted across various platforms, including the American Forces Network and Lifetime Network, highlighting career opportunities for military personnel and their families.
Targeting LG Energy Solution’s engagement with TAT EV aligns with the You Can In Michigan campaign, which aims to attract and retain top talent in the state. This collaboration underscores the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in addressing workforce challenges and supporting industry growth.
The TAT EV Program also helps sponsor LG’s participation in Engineering Career Fairs, Engineering Industry days, Engineering Information Sessions, and Michigander EV Scholars events. These events proved to be crucial recruiting efforts- LG was able to tap into engineering talent at major Michigan colleges such as Grand Valley State University, the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.
As a result, LG’s facility in Holland hired 15 new engineers and 27 new interns within the last year alone. Collaborative efforts such as these ensure companies like LG will secure qualified talent to continue producing quality, in-demand products.
LG Energy Solution’s recruitment strategy leveraging TAT EV, particularly in reaching out to military and veteran communities and local college graduates, demonstrates their commitment to building a skilled and diverse workforce while contributing to the local economy.
For more information about the TAT EV program contact West Michigan Works! Business Solutions below
