Industry and Business

An industry cluster is a geographic concentration of related employers, industry suppliers and support institutions in a product or service field. Michigan's Industry Cluster Approach (MICA) creates a framework in which many employers within a single industry jointly engage with the workforce system to identify their talent demand and challenges. In this approach, talent issues may be handled more efficiently through multi-company, industry-focused employment and training programs.

Regionally, Michigan Works! Agencies (MWAs) convene employers along with education providers, economic development organizations, and other groups associated with workforce development to solve talent challenges. Local industry clusters are formed based on local needs and are led by employers.  There are currently over 40 formally identified industry cluster groups throughout Michigan. The Cluster Team develops statewide policy and provides technical assistance to support regional cluster activity. The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity-Workforce Development (LEO-WD) focuses on key industry clusters: Agriculture, Construction, Energy, Healthcare, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Mobility, and Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation.

The primary strategy of LEO-WD focuses on aligning all efforts around priority industry clusters for a demand-driven workforce system. Through extensive labor market research, LEO-WD focuses on key industry clusters: Agriculture, Construction, Energy, Healthcare, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Mobility, and Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation. LEO-WD has identified a team of specialists within these industry clusters to drive workforce development efforts toward meeting the skill needs within these clusters.

What is an Industry Cluster? A cluster is a geographic concentration of related employers, industry suppliers, and support institutions in a product or service field. For the purposes of workforce development, Michigan's clusters are broad industry sectors. There is growing evidence that industry clusters are an effective organizing framework for positively impacting economic and workforce development activities. More than 25 states have adopted cluster strategies as the way to do business. Michigan is taking this strategy to the next level by implementing the Michigan Industry Cluster Approach throughout the workforce system.

The Talent Development Liaisons (TDLs) are responsible for engaging employers and educators to comprehensively address talent needs focused on mid- and long-term development skill gaps in key industries in each region statewide.

The three Cs of a TDL: Connect, Coordinate, Convene

The TDLs serve as connectors, coordinators, and conveners to ensure employers and educators develop strong partnerships regardless of which partner, or organization, they engage with initially. Each TDL serves as a subject matter expert for an industry sector and provides statewide sector specific technical assistance.

By developing innovative approaches to recruitment, training and retention strategies, through collaborative problem solving, creating unique approaches to career pathways, and proactive recruiting, TIA assesses and addresses Michigan employers' demand for talent to ensure workforce stability and offers holistic solutions for employers.  

Talent Development Liaisons Regional Map

Questions regarding MICA should be directed to a member of the MICA Team at 517-242-8463 or LEO-MICA@michigan.gov.    

You may also contact your local Michigan Works! Agency to inquire about their local and regional industry cluster activities.