Statement of the Michigan Manufacturers Association in response to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Sixth State of the State Address

LANSING (Jan. 24, 2024) — “Manufacturers add $102 billion in value to the Michigan economy each year so Governor Whitmer is right to set her sights on programs that will attract and retain manufacturing jobs and investment here in the Great Lakes State,” said Mike Johnston, MMA Executive Vice President of Government Affairs & Workforce Solutions. “We stand ready to support the Governor’s proposals to further strengthen skilled talent pipelines, lure high tech research and investments, and bolster our infrastructure to increase Michigan’s competitiveness and economic power.”

With more than 610,800 Michiganders employed by more than 12,000 manufacturers, Michigan is home to the most diverse industrial center in the entire world. Manufacturing is in our collective DNA but it’s not a birthright. We must be aggressive in our efforts to maintain our position as a strong manufacturing state.

“The HIRE Michigan Program, deployment of a state-based Research & Development Tax Credit and expansion of renaissance zones are critical components to ensuring that the next generation of innovators are building the future right here in Michigan,” continued Johnston.

More skilled workers are needed as manufacturing discovers, develops and implements new advanced technologies. With an average annual earnings of $92,439 for manufacturing employees, the industry has a vast array of fulfilling and lucrative career opportunities awaiting new and incumbent workers.

“Community colleges and career training programs are important talent pipelines for manufacturing skill development,” said Johnston. “We’re glad to see Governor Whitmer continue to invest in demand-driven skill development.”

Successful commerce relies on critical infrastructure to move raw materials to manufacturers and finished goods to markets. “Continued investment in our road infrastructure will enable economic growth and prosperity for Michigan citizens, our communities and local manufacturing employers,” Johnston continued.

“Make no mistake — Michigan's future growth will be driven by manufacturing, the largest sector of the state’s economy,” concluded Johnston. “We appreciate the Governor’s focus on top issues identified by the manufacturing sector and we look forward to working with the Administration and legislative leaders to achieve our shared goal of making Michigan the prime location for manufacturing growth and investment.”

For more information or to schedule a call with Mike Johnston, MMA Executive Vice President of Government Affairs & Workforce Development, contact MMA’s Delaney McKinley at 517-487-8530 or mckinley@mimfg.org.

Learn more about MMA.