The West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology (WMCAT) is a not-for-profit education and training facility in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. Their mission is to provide a culture of opportunity for people to make economic and social progress in their lives. This is achieved through innovative, impactful programs in career training and arts engagement. WMCAT's career instructors and teaching artists serve as mentors to their students, fostering self-confidence, leadership, teamwork, and the ability to set and meet goals. - See more at: http://www.wmcat.org/about/#sthash.ZR5TF8Gd.dpuf -
WMCAT opened in 2005 as one of the first sites to replicate the successful model found at Manchester Bidwell in Pittsburgh. MBC Founder, Bill Strickland envisioned an organization that addresses unemployment and high school achievement through adult career training and teen arts programs. Strickland's vision is woven throughout WMCAT today. They are an organization that strives for high impact and student-focused achievement. - See more at: http://www.wmcat.org/about/#sthash.ZR5TF8Gd.dpuf
Teen Arts + Tech Program
WMCAT offers a Teen Arts + Tech program for high school students within the Grand Rapids Public School District. Students use professional technology and learn a variety of art and design skills in a team environment with professional artists. Daytime classes are also offered in partnership with Kentwood Public Schools and Kent Innovation High. These programs are supported by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. - See more at: http://www.wmcat.org/teen-program/#sthash.C2sRFPIg.dpuf
Adult Career Training Program
WMCAT has an Adult Career Training Program which offers under and unemployed men and women the opportunity to learn a new career while growing personally and professionally. The Adult Career Training Program is divided into three fields; medical coding, medical billing, and pharmacy technician. Students are enrolled for a nine-month period, and conclude the program with a six-week externship. This program is completely scholarship based and is tuition free for those who meet the following requirements; live in the Kent county area, have a high school diploma or GED, no record of a felony, and receive some form of public assistance.
WMCAT has several valued community partners that share their passion and mission. They collaborate with other non-profit organizations to strength their programs and help better serve adults and teens. - See more at: http://www.wmcat.org/community-engagement/community-partners/#sthash.xdYPOlr7.dpuf