Michigan State University in East Lansing is partnering with California technology company Apple to open the Apple Manufacturing Academy this summer in downtown Detroit’s First National Building, offering both in-person and virtual programming.
The program is designed to uplift and improve operations of small and medium manufacturing companies across the United States.
Apple recently outlined a new pledge to build on its history of investing in American innovation and advanced high-skill manufacturing, including a new program partnering with MSU to train and support the next generation of U.S. manufacturers.
The Apple Manufacturing Academy in Detroit will be the first of its kind in the United States.
“The Apple Manufacturing Academy will train businesses across America to implement smart manufacturing techniques that are creating opportunity and shaping the future of technology,” says Sabih Khan, senior vice president of operations at Apple.
“Apple is proud to work with suppliers in all 50 states — and starting this summer, we’re excited to work with Michigan State University to expand American manufacturing leadership and help even more companies innovate and grow.”
Apple engineers, along with experts from Michigan State University, will consult with small- and medium-sized businesses on how they can implement artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing techniques into their operations.
The academy will offer free in-person and online courses, with training curriculum that teaches workers vital skills like project management and manufacturing process optimization, as well as vocational and leadership skills for individuals and small and medium businesses. The courses will help drive productivity, efficiency, and quality in companies’ supply chains.
Consulting services to the manufacturing companies will be offered both virtually and in person.
“With our strong programs in supply chain, logistics, engineering, packaging, and our commitment to be an industry leader in AI advancements, Michigan State is a perfect partner for this new effort, and we greatly appreciate the ongoing collaboration with Apple,” says Kevin M. Guskiewicz, president of MSU.
“Further, this project perfectly aligns with our mission around community outreach and our desire to solve the world’s problems, and we look forward to working side by side with manufacturing companies to transform this essential industry.”
MSU also partners with Apple on the Apple Developer Academy, with support from the Gilbert Family Foundation. This academy, located in downtown Detroit, has graduated roughly 200 participants annually since 2021, with another group planned to graduate this summer. Applications for the fall 2025 cohort are open now.
