Sanilac - Established in 1999, Production Development Systems has experienced exponential growth and continuous innovation. They design and build custom, automated work cells of all types and are a licensed Fanuc Robot integrator. PDS has recently purchased a third building to accommodate the massive equipment they have been contracted to build.

PDS also needs to staff this new facility, but the technical skillset required is not readily available in this labor market. This challenge is compounded by the fact that only one of their builders is proficient in the programming of PLC controls. This individual is also the company's primary robot programmer, so when a new system is being installed, other projects may come to a halt. Installations are also far less efficient because their only builder cannot simultaneously program a robot and a PLC. If this individual were to become disabled or unavailable, PDS would not be able to complete their projects. All of this puts PDS in a dangerous position.

To alleviate this issue, GST Michigan Works! partnered with PDS to complete a weeklong (40-hour) Incumbent Worker Training Project with Educated Business Resources Corp. (EBRC) in Control Logix PLC programming. Four of their Builders/Engineers completed the course, which will significantly improve the efficiency and throughput for PDS. This training will enable continued growth for PDS and enhance the career success of everyone involved!