Detroit City Wire

Apple plans to launch an Apple Manufacturing Academy in downtown Detroit later this year, the company announced on Monday. The academy aims to assist companies in transitioning to advanced manufacturing techniques. According to the announcement, Apple engineers and experts from universities such as Michigan State will work with small and midsize businesses at the academy, focusing on implementing artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing methods.

While specific details regarding the location of the academy in downtown Detroit or its employment numbers were not disclosed, it is expected to provide free courses both in-person and online. The curriculum will focus on skills development in areas like manufacturing process optimization and project management. "The courses will help drive productivity, efficiency, and quality in companies’ supply chains," the announcement stated.

In addition to the academy, Apple is set to open a new Apple Store along Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit later this year, just north of the Shinola Hotel. Details about the store's opening date were not provided, but it would be Michigan's seventh Apple Store.

Since 2021, Apple has operated an Apple Developer Academy in Detroit. This program has graduated nearly 1,000 residents with coding and workforce skills. The academy is now a partnership between Apple and Michigan State University (MSU), with sessions held at the First National Building at 600 Woodward.