Careerline Tech Center students learning about new auto batteries from LG Chem engineers.
HOLLAND, Mich. (WZZM) - On Wednesday, several engineers from the battery maker, LG Chem, were invited to Careerline Tech Center to teach students about electric powered batteries, despite the company's struggles over the new technology.
"We're working with LG Chem about future technology that's coming out," says Dave Searles, Director of Careerline Tech.
The LG Chem engineers are working for a company that's struggled to produce a single battery at its Holland plant in two years.
When asked if its important for students to learn about a failing technology, Searles said, " I can't determine what's failing and what's not right now."
Searles says LG Chem was selected to teach students in auto mechanics, engineering, and alternative energy. WZZM 13 asked Searles if it was a good idea to bring LG Chem in, even though the company's struggled with its own battery technology.
"I don't know on their end," says Searles. "I can only attest to what we're doing here with our program."
Searles says the school's focus is not on whether electric battery technology is successful or not, but instead to expose students to as many forms of alternative energy as possible.
"Battery, wind, solar, we have all those conversations," says Searles. "This is just one component of that exploration."
The school plans to have other local businesses teach about alternative energy in the future.
"We can't see down the road into the future, we can only explore," says Searles.
WZZM 13 tried to contact LG Chem for comment about teaching the class, but was unable to reach anyone. LG Chem officials said the engineers were not allowed to speak on camera.