State Rep. Ron Robinson (R–Utica) this week testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity in support of an $8 million grant request for the Southeast Michigan Construction Academy (SEMCA), a nonprofit workforce training institution preparing students for high-demand construction careers.

“Our country is staring down the barrel of a skilled trade labor shortage,” said Robinson. “SEMCA has already proven its ability to deliver results, and this expansion would allow thousands more students to gain the training they need for good-paying careers in construction.”

SEMCA is requesting $8 million to be included in the state budget to support the purchase, construction, renovation, and equipment of a new training facility in Sterling Heights. With over 750 students currently enrolled across its locations and its main campus in Madison Heights operating at capacity, SEMCA’s expansion would help meet the growing demand for skilled trades professionals in the region.

The funding would also support curriculum development and outreach efforts to recruit more students into high-demand construction careers.

“SEMCA will help launch the careers of countless talented young people in Macomb County,” said Robinson. “This investment would directly support our community and help the next generation to find good paying jobs, buy homes, and start families right here in Southeast Michigan.”

In addition, Robinson also advocated for $2 million in the state budget for the Chaldean Community Foundation’s upcoming “tiny home” project in Sterling Heights. The project would offer attainable rental and homeownership options for working families and individuals facing housing insecurity. Designed to be more than just shelter, the development would connect residents with wraparound human services including health care, financial assistance, and workforce support.

“Affordable housing is a huge priority for this legislature,” said Robinson. “This project is an opportunity to partner with a battle-tested organization who shares that same goal. This funding would help launch a community solution that’s scalable, sustainable, and sorely needed.”