Diversifying Economy, Investing in Citizens Will Make Michigan Competative, Create Opportunity .(MP3- 3MB)

Governor Appoints Keith Cooley Director of Department of Labor and Economic Growth

It is no secret that Michigan is up against some tough economic times right now. But we are working aggressively to diversify our economy and help our citizens get the education and the skills they need to help turn things around. Michigan's economic plan is, by far, the most aggressive in the nation, and it's the right plan to move our state forward. By investing in the things that make us competitive as a state – such as our workers and our students – we are creating opportunity for all Michigan citizens.

There are three things Michigan must do, and do well, to be successful in a global economy. They are:

1. Michigan citizens must have the necessary tools for success. Pfizer's elimination of 2,400 jobs in Michigan last week sent a reminder that in today's global marketplace, change is a constant. That is why my economic plan is working to provide citizens with the tools they need to succeed in Michigan.

2. Michigan must attract and grow high-tech companies. On the same day of the Pfizer announcement, AquaBioChip, a small high-tech company, left Michigan State University where it began and opened a new office in Lansing. The company was aided by the 21st Century Jobs Fund and is the latest in a growing roster of companies that are creating jobs and developing new technologies in Michigan.

3. Michigan must invest in schools. The Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) data that was released recently showed an increase in scores around the state – especially in reading and math. Despite Michigan’s economic down-turn, we have continued to invest more in schools and revamped expectations of students by standardizing and strengthening the content taught to students in grades K-8.

In the coming days, there will be a lot of conversation about where our state is headed and how Michigan will fare in the face of an economic hurricane. We will ride out the storm together and keep moving forward. Click here to read more.