Workers engaged in a collaborative effort on a large infrastructure project in Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity has launched the Michigan Statewide Infrastructure Workforce Plan to tackle job shortages and enhance training in the infrastructure sector. This initiative aims to train at least 5,000 new workers by 2030, responding to the significant job creation expected from over $16.7 billion in federal funding. The plan focuses on expanding apprenticeship programs, ensuring job accessibility, developing regional strategies, and encouraging youth career pathways, all of which are crucial for the state’s infrastructure development and overall economic growth.
Howell, Michigan – The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity unveiled the Michigan Statewide Infrastructure Workforce Plan on Thursday morning, aimed at addressing job shortages and enhancing training opportunities in the state’s rapidly transforming infrastructure sector. The announcement coincided with the Operating Engineers 324 Michigan Construction Career Days at the Sam T. Hart Construction Career Center.
Michigan is undergoing a significant transformation of its infrastructure, spurred by over $16.7 billion in federal funding directed towards various projects, including clean energy initiatives, transportation improvements, and broadband expansion. This influx of resources is anticipated to create approximately 11,000 new jobs annually, highlighting the escalating demand for skilled labor in the state.
In response to this growing need, the infrastructure workforce plan sets a target of training at least 5,000 new infrastructure employees by January 1, 2030, as specified in a previous executive directive from the governor. Susan Corbin, the director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, underscored the necessity for comprehensive training tailored to the future workforce’s requirements.
The infrastructure workforce plan is structured around four main strategic pillars:
This plan builds upon Michigan’s existing Statewide Workforce Plan, with a focused emphasis on developing the infrastructure workforce. The state currently ranks as No. 3 in the nation for supporting adult employment, No. 4 for active Registered Apprenticeships, and holds the top position for credential attainment among adults.
Various stakeholders, including industry leaders and state department representatives, are uniting to enhance the framework for workforce development. Registered Apprentices like Aaron Morrell have highlighted the advantages of apprenticeship programs in acquiring necessary skills without incurring student debt. The emphasis on securing skilled talent for infrastructure projects has been echoed by leaders such as Hernando Flowers from Barton Malow.
Upcoming events are planned throughout the state to promote the infrastructure workforce plan and its wide-reaching benefits, as noted by Stephanie Beckhorn from the Labor and Economic Opportunity department. Kevin Mehren, the director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office, emphasized the importance of a skilled workforce in ensuring the effective and economic delivery of critical infrastructure projects.
State transportation director Bradley C. Wieferich acknowledged the crucial role of workforce investment in advancing Michigan’s infrastructure improvements. Additionally, Phil Roos, the director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), recognized the significant job creation potential associated with investments in clean energy within the state. The infrastructure plan is expected not only to boost employment but also to contribute to greater community development and improved access to vital services, such as broadband.
As Michigan continues to leverage substantial federal funding and enhance its workforce capabilities, the newly launched statewide infrastructure workforce plan aims to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled laborers, essential for maintaining the state’s ongoing infrastructure advancements.
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