North Star Alliance Initiative

October 8, 2009

On Wednesday, Maine?s North Star Alliance Initiative (NSAI) convened their final symposium in Hallowell. NSAI was created from a $14.4 million US DOL WIRED (Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development) grant received in 2006. Maine targeted the industries of boatbuilding, composites and marine trades and facilitated a partnership between state and local government and representatives from these industries to address workforce needs. Achievements included a Maine Advanced Technology Center in Brunswick; Advanced skills and trainings for 1,500 Maine workers; Curriculum Enhancement at the Landing School and Husson University?s Boat School; Certification of 113 secondary and post-secondary instructors in new manufacturing technologies; and $50 million of additional investments.