Auto supplier Gentex Corp., a maker of automatic dimming mirrors and sensors, is continuing its push to attract employees by changing its operations — this time by adding an on-site day care and preschool available to workers on the first and second shifts.
Officially named the Gentex Discovery Preschool: An ODC Network Early Childcare Center, the facility at the company's headquarters operations in Zeeland, Mich., will consist of a 43,000-square-foot building with 12 day care rooms, three infant rooms, an indoor play center, a food preparation area and both office and common space. The center also will include several outdoor nature-based playscapes and a fishing pond, according to the Grand Rapids Business Journal.
The day care will have capacity for up to 250 children per shift.
"The low availability and high cost of child care has long been a barrier to employment, and we want to remove that obstacle so more people can experience the benefits of being a member of team Gentex," CEO Steve Downing said.
Earlier this year, Gentex developed an all-Spanish-speaking shift to attract workers who might otherwise not feel comfortable applying for a job at the company.