Manufacturing remains the largest sector of Michigan’s economy, and strong CTE programs are essential for building local talent pipelines and supporting the employers in your communities.
Michigan's FY 2026 School Aid Fund Budget provides dedicated funding to help districts expand CTE offerings, launch new programs, and modernize labs. These funds will dramatically expand CTE programs across the state, and your district can secure a portion of this funding.
IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing is a nationally recognized program that combines hands-on labs, multimedia curriculum, teacher training, and industry credentials into a cohesive advanced manufacturing pathway for grades 9–12.
It is designed to be “grant-ready”—with clearly defined courses, outcomes, and implementation plans.
Co-developed with Amatrol and Michigan's LIFT, the program has been deployed in 100+ districts across the U.S.
In Michigan, IGNITE is aligned to CTE CIP codes and includes State of Michigan and Perkins V-approved certifications, making it the perfect fit for your district.
IGNITE is a foundational skills development program designed to introduce students to high-demand advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0 careers.
IGNITE's curriculum features eLearning, hands-on skills, individual and group projects and problem-solving activities, and a capstone project.
IGNITE's curriculum is a multi-course, modular program that can be easily fitted to your district's needs. Each course can be completed in one semester, providing flexibility for one, two, or three-year programs and beyond.
All IGNITE courses include engaging interactive eLearning lessons, computer simulations, design projects, and hands-on skills using authentic industrial technology fitted for the classroom.
Start with one, two or more courses. Add courses as your program expands!
Start with the fundamentals:
Additional courses include…
IGNITE is aligned to Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) certifications: nationally-recognized, third-party credentials developed by industry for today's most in-demand advanced manufacturing skills.
Community colleges across Michigan have aligned their programs to SACA certifications. So high school students in an IGNITE program will have a seamless transfer from high school, to post-secondary, to workforce through a standardized set of skill competencies and certifications.
SACA has member institutions all across Michigan!
Working with ATS Midwest and the IGNITE program, you'll join dozens of institutions all aligned to industry's latest workforce needs.
When your students earn SACA certifications, they can continue their pathway to post-secondary or go directly to the workforce with a high-value certification in hand.
IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing is already in use in schools and training centers preparing students for careers in modern manufacturing. The program has been shaped by national employers, aligns to community college programs, and is supported by workforce experts who understand the skills today’s manufacturers expect from new hires.
When you work with us, you'll get access to the necessary equipment, curriculum, and teacher training to deliver advanced manufacturing courses to high school students.
This includes wraparound support for the school, from implementation guidance, to industry-recognized certifications, to engagement with local manufacturers and community colleges.
LIFT is a Detroit-based, Department of Defense-funded Manufacturing USA Institute, set up as a public-private partnership to advance manufacturing technologies and skills.
With the need for a skilled advanced manufacturing workforce, LIFT co-developed the IGNITE program alongside Amatrol to prepare students nationwide for careers in industry.
Because of the program's alignment to industry, MMA has supported the IGNITE program's development and growth across Michigan.
The Department of Education will require schools to submit a formal proposal in order to access these funds. We have a proven track record of securing state funding for projects like this, backed by strong relationships with local industry. We are prepared to assist you in designing your CTE program proposal to successfully develop, implement, and maintain a highly successful advanced manufacturing program.
Our team of education, curriculum and technology experts at LIFT, MMA and ATS Midwest will guide you through the entire process.
