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Kingsford, Mich. (APRIL 20, 2026) – At Breitung Township Schools, students are about to get their hands on the future. Thanks to a $203,557 Career and Technical Education (CTE) expansion grant from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE)  Kingsford Middle School will be launching an innovative new Middle School Advanced Manufacturing program to meet rising student demand and regional labor needs.

Our district is proud to be one of 14 award recipients across the Upper Peninsula, which saw a total of $4,009,488 invested in regional schools.

Historically, CTE programs have been reserved for high schoolers. However, this historic funding opens the door for middle school CTE for the first time in Michigan, an opportunity many states still do not offer. The initiative aims to capture the curiosity of younger students, particularly here in the Upper Peninsula, where a massive wave of funding is dedicated to "Middle School Advanced Manufacturing" programs.

Engaging students early with hands-on, minds-on classes in high-demand technical fields is critical for our local economic future.

"We are incredibly grateful to receive this state funding, which allows Breitung Township Schools to continue partnering with our local industry to provide practical, hands-on experience at the middle school level. By fostering this synergy between BTS and our community partners, we are preparing our students for multiple successful pathways; whether that leads directly into the trades, manufacturing, or advanced post-secondary degrees. This is a tremendous win-win for BTS and the entire Kingsford-Iron Mountain community as we work together to equip the next generation of our workforce.” said Aaron Yonke, Superintendent of Breitung Township Schools.

By introducing advanced manufacturing early, BTS is equipping students with stackable, industry-recognized credentials, closing opportunity gaps in rural areas, and strengthening the local workforce before students even reach high school. The infusion of funding is designed to create a seamless transition from middle school exploration to high school credentialing and training, and ultimately, to local higher education and careers.

At the state level, leaders recognize the importance of this local momentum. 

"Awarding these grants to local school districts is yet another way that we are helping to put Students First,” said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. “Michigan has experienced record enrollment in CTE programs in recent years, but we haven’t been able to fully keep up with the demand. These grants will give students more access to CTE programs that prepare them for postsecondary education and rewarding careers.”

The Upper Peninsula has a rich industrial heritage, built on hardworking generations in mining, forestry, and traditional trades. Today, the landscape of those industries is shifting rapidly toward automation, mechatronics, and advanced digital technologies. By securing this state funding, Breitung Township Schools is positioned so that our next generation isn't left behind in this technological revolution. These new programs will empower students to build on the region's legacy of hard work by equipping them with the cutting-edge, high-tech skills required to thrive in the modern workforce.

The state's commitment to CTE continues to grow. “Michigan is experiencing remarkable growth in Career and Technical Education, with a 44% increase in state-approved programs over the last decade, strengthening our workforce pipeline and opening new pathways for students to gain in-demand skills,” said Celena Mills, director of the MDE Office of Career and Technical Education 

For more information about the new Advanced Manufacturing program at Breitung Township Schools, please visit kingsford.org or contact Superintendent Aaron Yonke at 906-779-2650.

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