Over 70 percent of Holland's population is under the age of 44. More than 35 percent have attended college, with five percent holding graduate or professional degrees.

Local K-12 public and private schools boast excellent high school completion rates and test scores. the greater Holland area is served by more than seven institutions of higher education including Aquinas College, Calvin College, Davenport College, Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University, Hope College and Western Michigan University. Hope College, located in the heart of Holland, is one of the nation's leading private liberal arts colleges.

The recently opened Michigan Technical Education Center (M-TEC) offers high-tech training in the center of Ottawa County's industrial corridor.

The center features a full service Grand Rapids Community College site offering courses in traditional and open entry/open exit (OE/OE) formats. Successful completion can lead to certificates, apprenticeships, and associates degrees. Training in the following skilled trades is being offered with other areas to be added based on industry demand.

• CAD/CAM Designer
• Industrial Maintenance Tech
• SPC/Quality Control Technician
• Electronic Technician
• Machine Builder/Repairer
• Tool & Die Maker
• Industrial Electrician
• Machinist
• Welder Fabricator

The Ottawa Area Intermediate School District provides non-college credit programs and services with consultants and specialists offering basic and advanced skill training in areas such as quality management, computer applications, general performance improvement, leadership, and strategic planning.

Students at M-Tec enjoy state of the art facilities, including:

• technical training laboratories
• seminar and training rooms
• an interactive distance learning classroom
• computer labs equipped with CAD/CAM and IT
• the learning Resource Center which offers self-directed and self-paced learning opportunities delivered via computer, world-wide web, video, CD, or printed marterials