BASF’s Wyandotte, Michigan site recently hosted 21 students for TECH Academy 2025. The week-long summer program is designed for high school juniors and seniors in the Metro Detroit area who are interested in pursuing skilled trade careers. From June 16 to June 20, TECH Academy offered an exceptional opportunity for students to gain firsthand knowledge about various career paths including manufacturing, welding, mechanics, HVAC, healthcare, and first responders, and the training required for them.

The students engaged in hands-on experiences at multiple facilities including BASF, Gorno Ford dealership, Wyandotte Fire Department, Expert Heating & Cooling, Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and Wayne County Community College District. They also toured the Ford F-150 Plant in Dearborn.

“TECH Academy provides a unique opportunity for students to explore various skilled trades through hands-on experiences,” said Michele Barney, BASF Wyandotte Site Director. “By engaging directly with professionals in the field, students gain valuable insights and confidence in their abilities. This program reflects our dedication to workforce development and helping young individuals discover the diverse career paths available in today’s workforce.”

“My favorite part about TECH Academy was that we got to go through a bunch of trades here at BASF… most importantly, showing that it’s not as hard as everything seems and you can do it,” said Colby Price, a recent graduate from Gibraltar Carlson High School.

TECH Academy is fully funded by BASF as part of the company’s commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) education and workforce development. This program aims to equip students with valuable knowledge while fostering their interest in pursuing careers in the skilled trades sector.