Description

The Chamber Lunch & Learn Series, presented by Southwestern Michigan College, is a free monthly event exclusively for Greater Niles Chamber Members. Each session dives into the current challenges and trends shaping talent management, featuring insights from industry experts and a taste of local cuisine through diverse catering options from the Niles region.

This month’s session will feature Larry Holz, Chair of Advanced Technology and Professor of Robotics at Southwestern Michigan College.

Larry Holz and his wife, Jaclyn, live on a small chestnut farm near Southwestern Michigan College.  They raised two daughters on the farm, both graduated from Dowagiac Union High School and went on to attend the University of Michigan.

Larry worked for over thirty years in manufacturing, with his last 20 years being in management and leadership roles, culminating in the role of Plant Manager at Kaiser Aluminum in Kalamazoo.  His educational background is a BS in Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois, an MS in Mechanical Engineering from Northern Illinois University, and an MBA from Indiana University South Bend.  He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration at Indiana Wesleyan University.

Larry always thought teaching at the institution that he could look out at from his back fields would be an enjoyable experience. Six years ago, circumstances came about that SMC needed a Robotics instructor at a time when he was rethinking his career path, and he decided to join SMC.  Four years ago, he also took on the role of the Chair of the School of Business and Advanced Technology.

About the School of Advanced Technology:

The School of Advanced Technology at Southwestern Michigan College offers certificates and Associate in Applied Science degrees in several high-demand, high-tech career fields, including automotive technology, construction trades, robotics, and welding technology.

Our programs emphasize hands-on learning in state-of-the-art lab environments, where students train on the same equipment and technology they’ll encounter in the workplace. Courses are led by instructors with extensive experience in their respective trades, ensuring students receive practical, industry-relevant education that prepares them for immediate employment and long-term career growth.