Consumers Energy Breaks Ground on New Natural Gas Training Facility in Flint

Rhea-AI Summary

Consumers Energy has commenced construction on a cutting-edge natural gas training facility named Flint Gas City in Flint, Michigan. This $10.1 million initiative aims to enhance training for over 1,500 employees who manage natural gas infrastructure. The facility will feature specialized learning environments, including a mock neighborhood for practical training. Completion is projected for winter 2022. This development underscores the company's commitment to safety and effective service delivery in the natural gas sector.

Positive

• Investment of $10.1 million in a new training facility.
• Training resource for over 1,500 employees to enhance safety and service.
• Partnership with Michigan State Utility Workers Council strengthens workforce capabilities.

Negative

• None.

FLINT, Mich., Oct. 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy today broke ground on its new state-of-the-art natural gas training facility. The center, named Flint Gas City, will serve as a training resource for more than 1,500 Consumers Energy employees who build, maintain and operate natural gas infrastructure.

"Flint Gas City is a breakthrough initiative that directly impacts our goal to provide world-class performance and deliver hometown service," said Tonya Berry, vice president of Gas Operations at Consumers Energy. "This facility, along with our training team, will provide the best possible preparation for our current and future workforce."

Developed in partnership with the Michigan State Utility Workers Council, the $10.1 million facility will be located at the Flint Service Center, 3201 E. Court Street.

"The development of this learning center in conjunction with the Michigan State Utility Workers Council is a testament to our strong partnership and commitment to ensuring our employees have the necessary training and resources to deliver safe, reliable natural gas to the communities where we live and serve," said Amanda Wagenschutz, vice president of People and Culture Operations at Consumers Energy.

The training center will feature learning environments designed specifically for the natural gas industry, including a command center where instructors will create and control various training scenarios, such as gas leak simulations, service hook-ups, utility locating, leak detection and corrosion monitoring.

Construction is expected to be complete in winter 2022.

"This new state-of-the-art training center will build on our safety culture and commitment by providing an immersive experience with the equipment, scenarios and environments our natural gas workers deal with every day," said Craig Wright, president of the Michigan State Utility Workers Council.

Once complete, the 1.4-acre complex will also include:

• A mock neighborhood of mini-homes and businesses with functioning pipelines, meters and other natural gas facilities
• An outdoor space for practicing heavy equipment use in a safe, controlled environment
• A controlled outdoor area to practice fighting natural gas fires

In addition, the company will partner with local first responders to coordinate natural gas safety training opportunities for emergency responders.

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electric service to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

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SOURCE Consumers Energy

FAQ

What is the purpose of the Flint Gas City training facility?

The Flint Gas City training facility is designed to provide enhanced training for Consumers Energy employees who build, maintain, and operate natural gas infrastructure.

How much did Consumers Energy invest in the new training facility?

Consumers Energy invested $10.1 million in the new Flint Gas City training facility.

When is the Flint Gas City training facility expected to be completed?

The construction of the Flint Gas City training facility is expected to be completed in winter 2022.

Who are the partners in developing Flint Gas City?

The training facility was developed in partnership with the Michigan State Utility Workers Council.

How will the Flint Gas City facility enhance employee training?

Flint Gas City will feature specialized environments for training, including gas leak simulations and real-world scenarios to improve workforce preparedness.