Our roundup of the latest news from metro Detroit and Michigan businesses as well as announcements from government agencies. To share a business or nonprofit story, please send us a message.
Ziebart Celebrates 65 Years with Detroit Historical Museum Exhibit Unveiling
Ziebart International Corp. in Troy is starting its 65th anniversary with the Defending Our Legacy: Ziebart’s 65th Anniversary event, which includes unveiling a new exhibit at the Detroit Historical Museum at 10 a.m. on March 28.
The new exhibit, which will be in the museum’s America’s Motor City exhibition, will detail the last 65 years of the Ziebart franchise, from the invention of rustproofing in 1959 to the extensive services the brand offers today, including detailing, paint correction and protection, window tinting, and more.
Brand founder Kurt Ziebart’s family will be in attendance, along with the head of the International Franchise Association (IFA), and a University of Michigan icon. In addition to the fanfare associated with the event, Ziebart also will announce a number of new initiatives, including partnership agreements, a national advertising campaign, and the introduction of the brand’s first-ever mascot.
“As we celebrate 65 years of defending vehicles, we’re proud to have played a role in Detroit’s rich history in the automotive industry,” says Thomas A. Wolfe, president and CEO of Ziebart. “As we look forward to continuing to build upon this foundation of innovation, invention, and problem solving, we’re thrilled to commemorate our 65th anniversary with this remarkable partnership and event at the Detroit Historical Museum.”
Underscoring the theme of Detroit and community, the event will feature the artwork of Detroit-native Desiree Kelly, who will live-paint a mural depicting iconic Ziebart moments onto a car door. Also attending the event is University of Michigan’s very own Victor the Frisbee Dog, who was seen at every home football game on the Wolverines’ road to the 2024 NCAA championship.
Highlighted in the event will be Ziebart’s longstanding dedication to helping U.S. veterans achieve franchising success. The brand waives the entire initial franchise fee for all veterans, which has paved the way to allow for 10 percent of Ziebart’s franchise owners to proudly come from military backgrounds. Their commitment to U.S. veterans has earned Ziebart recognition from VetFran as one of the top franchises for veterans. Ziebart looks forward to extending their dedication to supporting U.S. veterans beyond the franchising world with an exciting new partnership to be announced at the event.
For more information on Ziebart’s franchising opportunities, visit here.
Italian Design Day Celebrated in Detroit with Focus on AI, Robotics, and Innovation
Italian Design Day (IDD) was celebrated in Detroit in its eighth edition with a celebration of innovation, creativity, and collaboration, showcasing the exciting possibilities of AI and robotics in the field of architecture and design, as well as the incredible women behind it (as an homage to International Women’s month).
The event, hosted by Consul Allegra Baistrocchi, had a special focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the architecture and design community and featured a keynote address by Dr. Sara Codarin, an Italian professor at the College of Architecture and Design of Lawrence Technological University.
The event highlighted Italy’s commitment to AI innovation, with Baistrocchi noting Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s focus on AI as a key priority of Italy’s G7 Presidency (and the G7 Summit that will take place in Apulia on June 13-15) and a joint commitment of Italy and the U.S., as demonstrated by the recent bilateral meeting with President Joe Biden. In emphasizing the importance of ethical AI development — highlighting the need to place human beings, their rights, and their needs at the center of technological advancement – with reference to beauty and design the centrality of human intelligence at its base did not go unnoticed.
The celebration of Italian Design Day continued with a discussion on Italy’s contributions to AI and robotics with Codarin’s experience at LTU with robotics, as well as a showcase of the ‘Rome-ing Around’ project led by Dean Daubman and Codarin in its third edition. This project offered students an immersive experience in Rome, focusing on its historical and architectural significance.
The evening also featured an exhibition of the works of the most recent ‘Rome-ing’ students, produced with AI and highlighting their innovative designs and concepts, as well as robots creating different forms of artwork (both in 2-D and 3-D) based on prompts such as the longitude and latitude of the Consulate of Italy in Detroit or of monuments they had visited in Rome.
The event also was an occasion for Baistrocchi to highlight Michigan’s participation (both with LTU and College for Creative Studies participation) in the Salone del Mobile, the world’s most important trade fair for furniture and furnishings, taking place in Milan in April.
To see photographs of the event, visit here.
Consumers Energy Expands MI Clean Air, Allowing Customers to Offset Carbon Emissions
Consumers Energy in Jackson has expanded the MI Clean Air, a program offering customers the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint associated with natural gas use.
The program’s expansion now will include several renewable natural gas projects (RNG) developed in partnership with farmers across the state, increasing options for customers to offset a portion — or all — of the emissions associated with their natural gas use through carbon offsets.
“Consumers Energy has some of the most aggressive clean energy goals in the nation, including net zero emissions by 2040,” says Holly Bowers, vice president of gas engineering and supply at Consumers Energy “While we know that natural gas will continue to be an important part of the energy landscape for years to come, MI Clean Air is an opportunity for customers to be part of this historic shift, ensuring we’re able to make better choices for the planet while still providing the energy needed to heat Michigan homes and businesses.”
The RNG Program will use Michigan resources to produce a clean fuel used for customers in Michigan. The RNG Program will initially produce enough RNG to offset approximately 170,000 tons of carbon dioxide each year, the equivalent of taking 37,000 gasoline cars off the road.
The tiered subscription plan allows customers to add a small monthly fee of their choosing to their bill to pay for certified carbon-reducing projects, including forest preservation in the Upper Peninsula and RNG. Depending on customers’ budgets and goals, they can opt to offset anywhere from 10 to 100 percent of the carbon produced by the average Michigan home.
Customers seeking to enroll in the program can do so here.
Registration Opens for Northwood University Car Camp for High Schoolers
Registration is open for the Northwood University Full Tank Automotive Camp, a five-day experience fueled by General Motors Co. for high schoolers to explore opportunities in the automotive industry. It takes place June 23-28 at the Northwood campus in Midland.
“Students will learn about careers throughout the automotive industry, including design, development, manufacturing, sales, marketing, service and aftermarket,” says Elgie Bright, who chairs the automotive marketing/management program at Northwood.
In 2023, GM gifted Northwood University $100,000 to host an automotive camp. Following the camp’s success last year, GM has contributed another $100,000 for this year’s Full Tank Automotive Camp, which is aimed at students entering high school or currently in high school for the following school year.
Full Tank Automotive Camp attendees will:
- Discover their strengths and how their skills relate to the automotive industry
- Meet new friends and collaborate as a team
- Communicate through advertising
- Problem-solve in a business setting
- Learn how a profit center works
- Learn about the past, present and future of the automotive industry
- Create connections and network with faculty and industry experts
“Full Tank Automotive Camp is a tremendous opportunity for driven young students to grow their business skillset,” Bright notes. “With the guidance of current Northwood University students and faculty, campers will learn from industry professionals through hands-on exploration. The lessons and skills that campers learn here can start a future business leader’s career!”
The camp also includes field trips — including a trip to the Automotive Hall of Fame, in addition to business tours, a Great Lakes Loons game at Dow Diamond, and more.
Scholarships are available.
There are a limited number of spots available, so those interested in attending are encouraged to go online to save their spot today. To register, visit here. For more information, visit here.
Opus IVS In Dexter Launches “Collision is Hard” Podcast to for Industry Professionals
Opus IVS, a division of the Opus Group in Dexter, is launching a new podcast called “Collision is Hard,” a series designed to address the challenges faced by collision industry professionals, with a focus on career advancement, operational efficiency, and profitability in collision shops.
The podcast aims to tackle the leading issues facing collision shops today: navigating insurance reimbursement challenges, addressing the technician shortage, and ensuring the effective and safe service of today’s advanced vehicles. Through discussions with industry veterans and experts, it will offer listeners actionable insights and strategies to enhance their career prospects in the collision industry and operate their shops more efficiently and profitably.
“This podcast represents a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting the collision industry,” says Brian Herron, CEO of Opus IVS. “By sharing expert knowledge and practical solutions, we aim to empower professionals to overcome the challenges they face daily. ‘Collision is Hard’ is more than just a podcast; it’s a platform for growth, learning, and community building within the industry.”
“Collision is Hard” is available on major podcast platforms and is essential listening for anyone looking to advance their career in the collision industry or seeking to improve the operations and profitability of their shop. Join Opus IVS as they delve into the complexities of the collision industry, offering guidance, inspiration, and support to professionals at all levels.
For more information about “Collision is Hard” and to listen to the podcast, visit here.
Configura in Grand Rapids Wins Best IT Innovation Award at MODEX 2024
Configura, a Grand Rapids-based design-oriented software solutions, was honored with the MHI Innovation Award for Best IT Innovation for its CET Material Handling product. The award was announced at the MODEX 2024 material handling and supply chain conference in Atlanta.
Out of nearly 200 submissions for this year’s awards, MHI recognized Configura for its “dedication to creating revolutionary software for intralogistics, warehousing, and distribution center design.”
“I’m so proud and happy to be a part of this great team and the work we have accomplished to position Configura at the forefront of the material handling industry,” says Stefan Persson, CEO of Configura. “After more than 30 years, we continue to produce innovative products and services for the global design community and remain committed to listening to our customers and developing our products to best suit their needs.”
For more information on Configura and its comprehensive suite of products and services, visit configura.com.
Digital Equity Pilot Program Launches at Wayne County Community College District
Wayne County Community College District is launching a broad-based digital equity pilot program that will promote digital literacy and inclusion efforts for students and anchor communities served by the college.
Called the CMC Pilot program, the WCCCD program is supported by a grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).
The pilot program consists of three core program components: broadband capacity building; creating greater access to broadband, and digital inclusion and digital skills training. WCCCD is working with community-based partners to equip students with vital digital skills necessary to compete in the expanding tech industry across a broad range of business sectors.
“The mission of WCCCD has always been to provide pathways to better lives through higher education,” says Yoseph Demissie, vice chancellor and chief information officer at WCCCD “These days, having access to high-speed broadband technology and growing a range of digital skills is vital to that process; especially at a time when the most in-demand jobs in growing fields demand digital literacy.”
WCCCD is hosting information sessions that will provide interested Wayne County residents with course and program information. Registration is now open for tech training courses in high-demand fields including entry-level digital literacy, Google Data Analytics, UX/UI Design, Cyber Security, CompTIA Security+, and Mechatronics with a specialization in Fanuc 01 Certified Robotics Technology.
Each course is taught by expert professionals from leading tech companies and provides a rigorous, fast-tracked six- to eight-week curriculum designed for rapid certification and skill acquisition. The courses are offered at no cost to students, and are offered both virtually and in person, to meet residents where they are.
WCCCD will provide more than 200 loaner laptops complete with Verizon internet connectivity to eligible students on a first-come, first-served basis.
Interested individuals can register for these free training opportunities by visiting wcccd.edu.
Registration Opens for Summer, Fall Semesters at Washtenaw Community College
Registration for the Summer and Fall 2024 semesters at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor is now open.
The college offers flexible scheduling options and more than 130 programs to prepare students for rewarding careers or transfer to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree. Fifty program are offered 100 percent online.
Current students may enroll for classes online. Prospective students can apply for admission here.
Financial aid is available for high school seniors through the Michigan Achievement Scholarship. Adults 21 and older can apply for Michigan’s Reconnect Scholarship. Both offer opportunities to earn a degree tuition free.
WCC offers four starts to each semester. Courses with later start dates cover the same material at an accelerated pace.
Summer semester start dates are: Session I May 6, Session II May 20, Session III June 19, and Session IV June 28.
Fall semester four start dates: Session I Aug. 26, Session II Sept. 18, Session III Oct. 2 and, Session IV Oct. 18.
MI-UCP Presents Cerebral Palsy Virtual Seminar Series on National CP Awareness Day
MI-UCP, a Southfield organization dedicated to supporting individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) and their families, announces the launch of the Cerebral Palsy Virtual Seminar Series. This educational initiative coincides with National CP Awareness Day and is set to take place at noon on March 25.
This month’s Cerebral Palsy Virtual Seminar Series will focus on “Functional Changes and Pain with Aging and Cerebral Palsy.” Renowned experts in the field, Mary Gannotti and Dr. Ed Hurvitz, will lead the discussion, offering insights into the reasons why adults with cerebral palsy may experience functional changes or pain as they age.
The presentation also will provide practical advice on exercises and pain treatments that adults with CP can incorporate into their daily routines, as well as valuable resources to help manage their health effectively.
The virtual seminar series is open to individuals affected by cerebral palsy, their families, caregivers, health care professionals, educators, and anyone interested in learning more about the condition. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate from the comfort of their homes via an online platform.
To register, visit here.
Baker College Celebrates Women’s History Month with Virtual Event
Baker College in Royal Oak is celebrating Women’s History Month with a virtual event from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on March.
The school’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) Online Chapter is hosting the even that will feature Lakota Harden, a member of the Minnecoujou/Yankton Lakota and HoChunk communities.
She is an award-winning organizer, community leader, and elder, and has been at the forefront of Native American struggles for more than four decades.
To register, visit here.
Michigan Science Center, Ford House Invite Visitors to Experience the Solar Eclipse
Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores and the Michigan Science Center in Detroit are partnering together to welcome visitors to witness the spectacle of the solar eclipse on the grounds of the historic home on Monday, April 8, between noon and 4:30 p.m.
The event promises an unforgettable experience for both seasoned astronomers and curious stargazers alike.
It will take place outdoors and indoors, rain or shine. Visitors can enjoy the Ford House grounds and concessions beginning at noon, with self-paced tours of the Main Residence available until 4 p.m. From 1:30-4:30 p.m., visitors can participate in several educational and hands-on activities with the Michigan Science Center’s educators, who will be on-hand to provide details of how the eclipse unfolds as well as demonstrate how to make pin-hole projectors and sun-spotting scopes for safe viewing.
Family-friends activities include:
- Pinhole Projector Making (arts and crafts activity to safely view the eclipse)
- Kid Safety Shields for Eclipse Glasses (arts and crafts activity to shield peripheral sunlight around eclipse glasses)
- Solar Telescopes and Sunspotters (science technology to safely view the sun)
- NISENet’s Build a Moon Base Camp (design-based activity with consideration of the need to support life on the moon)
Tickets for this experience are on sale now for $7 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under, which includes a pair of solar eclipse glasses. Those looking for a fuller experience may purchase an exclusive VIP package, which includes admission, a pair of solar eclipse sunglasses, a special gift from the Michigan Science Center, two wine glasses, a bottle of Heron Hill’s Eclipse wine, and light bites for two guests. All of this is available for just $50 for members of Michigan Science Center and Ford House and $60 for non-members. Friends of Ford House and Michigan Science Center members may secure general admission tickets at no cost and will receive a discount on the VIP package.
To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit fordhouse.org/friends, or to become a Michigan Science Center member, please visit misci.org/join-support. Visitors may purchase tickets to this solar eclipse experience at fordhouse.org/solareclipse.
Traverse Symphony Gets $500K from Desk Drawer Fund, MSUFCU’s Foundation
The Desk Drawer Fund and MSU Federal Credit Union’s foundation have donated $500,000 toward the construction of the new TSO music center in Traverse City, and to name the Rehearsal Hall.
Additionally, the TSO announced its decision to rebrand as the Traverse City Philharmonic (TC Phil), coinciding with the opening of the new music center this fall, which will be named the Traverse City Philharmonic Center. Online updates reflecting the new name will be effective June 1.
The TSO has been a pillar of cultural enrichment for 72 years, both as the leading professional orchestra in northern Michigan and through educational opportunities to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The new Traverse City Philharmonic Center, located in the former K-Mart at Cherryland Mall, will expand the TSO’s community impact significantly. The TSO’s new home will provide space for classes, lessons, and offices in addition to the Desk Drawer Fund Rehearsal Hall.
“This lead gift commitment from MSUFCU’s Foundation, the Desk Drawer Fund, exemplifies their dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of our community,” says Kedrik Merwin, executive director of the TSO. “It’s an exciting chapter in our history, and we wouldn’t be able to give back to the community with this new music center without this type of visionary partner. By naming the Rehearsal Hall, MSUFCU and its foundation are shining examples of what it means to cultivate the arts in our community.”
The 4,800-square-foot Rehearsal Hall will serve as a versatile space for rehearsals for all the ensembles, as well as a space large enough for smaller concerts and recitals, seating approximately 200 people in the audience. The Desk Drawer Fund’s support ensures that this space will be both beautiful and functional for rehearsing and performing, promoting an environment conducive to creativity and artistic excellence.
