Lansing Sun

In an Aug. 17 press release, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer commented on Michigan's robust labor market. She emphasized the state's commitment to economic growth through bipartisan budget investments in workforce programs, economic development, housing, and education, aiming to empower Michiganders to thrive. 

“Michigan’s strong economic momentum continues,” Gov. Whiter said according to the press release. “Michiganders are getting to work to provide for themselves and their families. Our responsibility is to have their backs. That’s why I recently signed a bipartisan budget making record investments in workforce programs, powering economic development, building housing, and lowering costs of school meals, housing, pre-K, higher education, and more. Let’s keep growing our economy to help anyone ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

According to the press release, Whiter highlighted Michigan's steady unemployment rate of 3.6% in July, the lowest in 23 years, with a labor force increase of 23,000 for the month, and 96,000 for the year. During the same time, the state recorded 63,000 new payroll jobs for the year. 

“Michigan’s July labor market continued to remain stable, with minor over-the-month increases in both total employment and unemployment,” said Wayne Rourke, labor market information director for the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics, WTVB News reported. “Seasonally adjusted payroll jobs remained constant in July as well.”

According to Business Facilities, with its extensive infrastructure including 33 deep water ports, 18 commercial airports, and 3,600 miles of railroad track, Michigan boasts a strong foundation. As the leading state in U.S. auto production, accounting for almost 19% of the total, Michigan's less restrictive regulations for self-driving vehicle testing have contributed to its dominance in the industry. This automotive prowess has also attracted semiconductor manufacturers, bolstering the state's economy with a substantial $4.6 billion gross regional product, particularly benefiting from its status as a hub for OEMs.