Michigan Manufacturing Week Targets Youth To Fill Skills Gap

factory at night with a silhouette of Michigan and the words Michigan Manufacturing Week

Michigan Manufacturing Week, celebrated from October 4th to 11th, underscores the state’s deep-rooted commitment to manufacturing and its evolving future. Home to more than 600,000 manufacturing workers and over 12,000 companies, Michigan plays a critical role in the nation’s manufacturing landscape. This week’s events focus on showcasing modern manufacturing opportunities and dispelling outdated perceptions of the industry as “dirty” or “low-skill” work. The goal is to inspire young people, emphasizing that skilled trades offer a valuable alternative to traditional college pathways, especially for those looking to avoid student debt while entering high-paying careers

A significant aspect of Manufacturing Week is the exposure of students to hands-on experiences in local manufacturing facilities. For instance, the 10th Annual Wayne County Manufacturing Day featured over 1,500 students who participated in facility tours and hands-on demonstrations, giving them a glimpse of advanced technologies like robotics and automation. (SEMCA Michigan Works!). 

 

Governor Gretchen Whitmer supports these initiatives by emphasizing the state’s strategy to retain talent and fill the growing demand for skilled workers. New legislation signed during Manufacturing Week furthers these goals by boosting workforce development efforts and creating investment-ready sites across the state. A $1 billion economic development package aims to make Michigan more attractive for large-scale manufacturing projects, leading to job creation and economic growth across multiple sectors State of Michigan | Michigan.gov Michigan MEDC

 

With an expected 8% increase in manufacturing jobs over the next decade, programs like the Going PRO Talent Fund and Registered Apprenticeships are being utilized to bridge the skills gap. These initiatives provide young people with training and apprenticeship opportunities that lead directly into high-demand careers. By equipping students with practical skills and connecting them to high-paying job opportunities, Michigan aims to ensure that its residents do not need to leave the state to find sustainable careers.

 

apprentice female works with older male on factory floor.

Additionally, Michigan’s push toward advanced sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs) and clean energy aligns with the state’s commitment to creating future-ready jobs. Investments in clean energy have already resulted in over 127,000 jobs, with projections indicating the potential for 41,000 more by 2040 as the state continues to expand in EV production and renewable energy. The emphasis on green manufacturing not only prepares the workforce for future technological demands but also contributes to sustainable economic growth and environmental responsibility(Michigan MEDC).

Governor Whitmer’s legislative actions also complement this growth by supporting various economic and social programs. For instance, bills signed recently include measures to improve funding for training programs, enhance protections for workers, and expand healthcare access in rural areas. These actions contribute to a holistic approach to workforce development, addressing both job training and the wellbeing of workers to ensure a resilient and thriving manufacturing sector(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov

Manufacturing Week is not just a celebration of Michigan’s industrial history but a forward-looking effort to engage the next generation in building the state’s future. By opening doors for young people to explore skilled trades and modern manufacturing technologies, Michigan is positioning itself to remain a leader in innovation and economic opportunity. The week’s events and recent legislative actions together reflect a comprehensive strategy to cultivate a skilled workforce, retain talent, and secure Michigan’s place as a manufacturing powerhouse for years to come(SEMCA Michigan Works!)(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov).

Through these concerted efforts, the state demonstrates that manufacturing is more than machinery; it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and the promise of sustainable, high-paying careers. Michigan Manufacturing Week serves as a pivotal opportunity to introduce youth to these career paths, encouraging them to envision a future in which they contribute to building not only products but also the economy and communities that thrive around them(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov).

12 High Paying Jobs for 2024 – No Degree Required!

The labor market in 2024 is set to see a significant demand for skilled trade jobs, a vital sector in the US economy. These jobs offer lucrative pay, engaging work environments, and are essential in various industries. Here’s a list of 12 high-demand, high-paying trade jobs:

1. Ultrasonographer ($131,161/year): With a 10% job growth rate, they perform diagnostic medical imaging.

2. Respiratory Therapist ($104,437/year): Essential in healthcare with a 13% growth rate, they assist patients with breathing issues.

3.  Dental Hygienist ($99,013/year): A 7% growth rate job focusing on oral health.

4.  Construction Manager ($88,319/year): With a 5% growth rate, they oversee construction projects.

5.  Aircraft Mechanic ($82,476/year): Ensuring aircraft safety, with a 4% job growth.

6.  Cable Technician ($70,714/year): A 6% growth rate in this tech-based role.

7.  Industrial Mechanic ($69,637/year): They maintain and repair industrial machinery, with a 13% growth rate.

8.  Solar Installer ($69,422/year): A rapidly growing field at 22%, focusing on renewable energy.

9.  Real Estate Appraiser ($64,075/year): Valuing properties with a 5% growth rate.

10. Electrician ($62,739/year): Essential for electrical systems with a 6% growth rate.

11.  Licensed Practical Nurse ($59,125/year): A vital healthcare role, growing at 5%.

12.  Wind Turbine Technician ($58,005/year): A booming field with a 45% growth rate, focusing on sustainable energy.

a male hand holds a pipe wrench up into the sky

These trades, requiring varying levels of vocational training or specialized schooling, are not just financially rewarding but are crucial for the economy’s health. Their roles are more than just jobs; they’re careers that shape the very infrastructure and well-being of society. As technology and industries evolve, these trades are at the forefront, ensuring efficiency, safety, and innovation. Emphasizing these trades’ importance and encouraging more people to enter these fields is essential to bridge the impending trade gap in the US labor force.

The evolving job market is increasingly valuing trades and associate degrees, marking a shift in what constitutes the ‘smart kids’ club. A 2023 survey by Intelligent.com reveals that nearly half of US companies plan to eliminate bachelor’s degree requirements in 2024, a trend that started in 2023. This change is driven by a desire to create more diverse workforces and the recognition that experience often outweighs formal education. Employers are now focusing on practical skills, with 80% prioritizing experience over education. Additionally, alternative educational paths like certificate programs and apprenticeships are gaining value, reflecting a broader understanding of skill acquisition beyond traditional four-year degrees. This trend underscores the growing importance of practical, hands-on skills in the modern labor market.

The Michigan Apprenticeship Program is a dynamic pathway combining practical working experience with learning, beneficial for both employers and apprentices. It’s a no-cost service provided by the State of Michigan, designed to simplify the process of registered apprenticeship. The program aims to build a skilled workforce by connecting Michigan employers with job seekers, offering crucial support and resources to both parties.

Registered Apprenticeship in Michigan, supported by the Department of Labor/Office of Apprenticeship, allows employers to create customized skilled trades training programs. This is particularly important in industries experiencing a significant gap between job openings and skilled workers. The program is recognized as a valuable training model by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. It involves on-the-job training and classroom instruction under the supervision of experienced industry professionals, serving as mentors. This approach not only benefits workers by providing job-related, classroom-based learning with paid on-the-job training in high-skill, high-wage, in-demand industry occupations, but it also helps employers by creating a pipeline of professional workers through work-based learning.

The program includes seven core components: Industry Led, Paid Job, Structured On-the-Job Learning/Mentorship, Supplemental Education, Diversity, Quality & Safety, and Credential. Each Registered Apprenticeship program is customized to meet specific employer needs, and upon completion, participants receive a nationally-recognized industry credential.

This approach is proving to be an effective strategy for recruiting, training, and retaining employees, perfect for filling the talent pipeline with highly skilled, diverse, and productive workers. It demonstrates the state’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce that meets the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s industries.

Meet Four Battle Creek Employers Who Are Training Tomorrow’s Workforce

apprentice learnings from teacher wearing yellow vest

Four Battle Creek employers were celebrated for pioneering in Registered Apprenticeship Programs. Recognized at Kellogg Community College, these firms exemplify effective workforce training, aligning with Michigan’s strategy to bolster the local talent pipeline and support skilled labor development. This initiative is part of a broader effort to upskill Michigan’s workforce.

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