Athens High School Kicks Off Advanced Manufacturing Curriculum Supported by LIFT and State of Michigan

Troy, Mich. –  In an effort to equip Michigan students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the rapidly evolving world of advanced manufacturing, IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing curriculum has kicked off for the 2025-26 school year at Athens High School.

The State of Michigan together with LIFT, the Department of Defense-supported national manufacturing innovation institute, and in partnership with the Michigan Manufacturers Association, supported expanding the program to the school through an appropriation from the state legislature in 2024. The pilot program in Troy brings cutting-edge curriculum and equipment to students in an effort to strengthen Michigan’s pipeline of skilled talent in high-demand technical careers.

“The introduction of the IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing program at Athens High School represents an important advancement in our ongoing efforts to align education with the evolving needs of industry,” said Dr. Richard Machesky, Superintendent, Troy School District. “This partnership ensures that our students have access to state-of-the-art technology and experiential learning opportunities that prepare them to contribute meaningfully to Michigan’s advanced manufacturing sector. We are grateful for the support of LIFT and the State of Michigan in helping us strengthen the connection between education and workforce development.”

Why IGNITE Is Needed Now More Than Ever
Michigan, a historic manufacturing hub, now faces a critical skills gap as employers seek a new generation of workers who are both technically trained and adaptable to new technologies. IGNITE directly addresses this need by giving high school students a head start on careers in advanced manufacturing while supporting their academic growth in math, science, and problem solving.

“At a time when Michigan’s manufacturing economy is rapidly transforming, it is essential that our education system evolves to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s workforce,” said Nigel Francis, CEO and Executive Director of LIFT. “IGNITE is about giving students access to real-world learning that opens doors to sustainable, high-tech careers in manufacturing.”

An Innovative, Holistic Curriculum
IGNITE: Mastering Manufacturing is built around three integrated components:

1. Materials Science: Students explore the properties and applications of advanced materials through modules rooted in both technical and core academic subjects.
2. Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Processes: Interactive multimedia learning and virtual simulations bring manufacturing systems to life through three foundational courses.
3. Capstone Projects: In their final year, students apply their knowledge in team-based projects that solve real-world manufacturing problems using emerging technologies.

Each course also incorporates Common Employability Skills—such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking—ensuring students are ready to thrive in any career path.

Building a Future-Ready Workforce
Originally developed in 2018 with input from industry leaders and funding from the Department of Defense, IGNITE has already served more than 37,000 students nationwide. Its arrival in Michigan is both timely and necessary.

“The manufacturing industry is evolving quickly, and employers need people with talent and a high-level understanding of advanced technology and systems,” said John Walsh, President and CEO of the Michigan Manufacturers Association. “IGNITE prepares students for the future with rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing.”

As advanced manufacturing increasingly relies on digital tools, customized production, and data-driven processes, IGNITE ensures that students are prepared to be at the forefront of innovation and economic growth.

“We hear from our clients weekly about the region’s need for a skilled workforce,” stated Janet Pasco, market president for Horizon Bank. “Thank you, LIFT and IGNITE, for choosing Athens High School to make this critical investment.” 

In addition to Athens, the program is also being introduced at Delton Kellogg High School in Delton, Michigan.

About LIFT
LIFT, operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute, is the Detroit-based, public-private partnership between the Department of Defense, industry, and academia, committed to the development and deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies, and implementing talent development initiatives to better prepare the workforce today and in the future. LIFT funded in part by the Department of Defense with management through the Office of Naval Research. Visit https://lift.technology/or follow on LinkedIn at LIFT or on Twitter @NewsFromLIFT to learn more.