Southern Michigan Bank & Trust (SMBT) has announced a significant contribution to Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC) in support of the upcoming renovation of the college’s Advanced Technology Center at its Texas Township campus. This transformative project will modernize and expand the 68,000-square-foot facility to create flexible, industry-relevant classrooms and a new 20,000-square-foot automotive lab, designed to meet the region’s growing demand for skilled workers in the trades and emerging technologies.

For nearly 60 years, Kalamazoo Valley has played a vital role in local workforce development. With this renovation, the college will be better equipped to train the next generation of electricians, machine tool engineers, CAD designers, HVAC technicians, energy systems specialists, welders, and automotive professionals skilled in hybrid, electric, and autonomous vehicle technology.

“A strong community depends on a strong, skilled workforce,” said John Waldron, President and CEO of Southern Michigan Bank & Trust. “We’re proud to support KVCC’s efforts to prepare students for meaningful careers in today’s highly coveted industries.”

This contribution reflects SMBT’s ongoing commitment to community growth and sustainable economic development. The bank’s support will help Kalamazoo Valley enhance its inclusive learning environment, create space for community collaboration, and expand access to high-demand, well-paying careers in technical fields.

For more information about Kalamazoo Valley’s Advanced Technology Center renovation or ways to support the initiative, please visit Technical Trades - Kalamazoo Valley Community College (www.kvcc.edu/technicaltrades)

 

 

Pictured left to right: Alisha Siebers, Associate Vice President for College Advancement, Executive Director of KVCC Foundation; Derek Naylor, SMBT 1st Vice President, Head of Retail Banking Services, Chief Deposit Officer; Justin Horn, SMBT Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer; L. Marshall Washington, Ph.D., KVCC President; John Waldron, SMBT President & CEO; Shannon Warsop, SMBT Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager; Aimee Kornowicz, SMBT Vice President of Municipal Banking.