Michigan’s manufacturing industry fuels career and economic growth
Michigan’s workforce development programs connect thousands to in-demand, high-wage manufacturing careers
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) is celebrating Manufacturing Week in Michigan by spotlighting this critical industry, which contributes approximately $114 billion annually to the state’s economy, and its key role in supporting good-paying, family-sustaining jobs for Michiganders.
Michigan is home to nearly 583,000 manufacturing workers – accounting for more than one out of every eight non-farm jobs in Michigan. Manufacturing offers a wide range of career opportunities in industries from automotive and electric vehicles to advanced mobility and technology. These careers supply Michigan employers with the skilled talent they need to innovate, grow and stay competitive in a rapidly changing economy.
“The manufacturing industry produces the goods and products essential for the standard of living we enjoy today, it drives economic growth by creating crucial, high-wage jobs, and it enhances our state’s competitiveness on a global scale,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “By investing in workforce training and programs that prepare Michiganders with the skills they need to succeed, we are keeping talent in our state, helping businesses thrive and ensuring that Michigan continues to lead in advanced manufacturing."
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Michigan created nearly 118,000 new manufacturing jobs from 2009 to 2025 — an increase of 25% — remaining a national leader in manufacturing job creation and outpacing most other states.
The state’s manufacturing sector spans traditional automotive, electric vehicle production, advanced mobility, clean energy and more. It also includes submarine production and related maritime manufacturing, supported by the Federal Michigan Maritime Manufacturing Initiative (M3). Introduced by Governor Whitmer in 2024, M3 focuses on developing a skilled workforce for this increasingly important sector.
Through the M3 Initiative, workers receive training at Macomb Community College in critical skills for maritime construction. M3 also connects with K-12 students to drive interest in manufacturing careers and inspire a new generation of skilled workers. As of September 2026, 194 students have successfully completed the program, positioning themselves for in-demand, high-paying jobs as CNC machinists and welders. LEO is working to expand the initiative to other parts of the state.
LEO also recently launched the Michigan Industry-Driven Skills Training Program. This federally funded and state-supported initiative is designed to strengthen Michigan’s maritime manufacturing and shipbuilding workforce by investing in training programs that prepare workers for high-demand roles in shipbuilding, marine systems and advanced manufacturing. The program is supported by the new Michigan Maritime Employer-Led Collaborative, enabling employers to work together to identify shared workforce needs and shape effective, industry-driven training strategies.
These industries are creating new pathways for students and young professionals to enter the workforce, ensuring Michigan talent can meet the demands of modern manufacturing without leaving the state. By partnering with businesses, LEO programs help employers retain talent, expand operations and remain competitive. Employers can learn more about employer-led collaboratives by visiting LEO’s Industry and Business webpage.
“Michigan Manufacturing Week is a celebration of the people, ingenuity and determination that power our state's economy every day. From family-owned shops to global manufacturers, our industry creates opportunity, drives innovation and strengthens communities in every corner of Michigan," said John J. Walsh, President & CEO, Michigan Manufacturers Association. "This week is an opportunity to recognize the manufacturers who are building the future and to inspire the next generation to explore the rewarding careers that make Michigan a manufacturing leader.”
LEO has several initiatives that equip workers with the skills needed to thrive in advanced manufacturing and clean energy sectors, while supporting businesses in growing their workforce. The Going PRO Talent Fund supports short-term, employer-driven training programs ranging from classroom instruction to on-the-job training and Registered Apprenticeships.
LEO’s efforts to expand use of the Registered Apprenticeship training model supports programs that combine classroom learning with hands-on experience, helping students and workers gain practical skills while earning competitive wages. LEO’s Community and Worker Economic Transition Office plays a vital role in helping Michigan communities and workers navigate economic shifts in key industries like automotive and energy, ensuring that no one is left behind as technology and production evolve.
“The advanced manufacturing jobs available today are high-wage and high-demand,” said LEO Workforce Development Director Krista Johnson. “By equipping our students and workers with the skills they need for careers in manufacturing, we’re building better futures. Our programs ensure Michiganders can thrive in advanced industries right here in our state, creating opportunities that strengthen families and communities alike.”
By connecting schools, businesses and workforce programs, Michigan is creating a network where innovation and opportunity go hand in hand. These efforts reinforce the state’s leadership in advanced manufacturing while ensuring that Michiganders have access to jobs that sustain families and communities.
There are many resources available to support Michiganders who are interested in exploring in-demand, high-skilled and well-paid career options in the manufacturing industry. This includes the state’s free career exploration tool, Pathfinder (Pathfinder.MiTalent.org). Career seekers can also search for open manufacturing jobs on Pure Michigan Talent Connect (MiTalent.org).
To learn more about Michigan’s manufacturing workforce programs and initiatives, visit Michigan.gov/Workforce.
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