Michiganders encouraged to explore high-demand, high-wage career pathways

To recognize the state's urgent and growing need for talent and the programs and services in place to help and engage residents in employment, training and educational opportunities, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer encourages Michiganders to explore the many career pathways available to them during Career Exploration and Awareness Month, Dec. 1 - 31.

"We want to make sure every Michigander has access to the tools and resources they need for career exploration at any stage in life," said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. "Whether you're a young student just launching your career, re-entering the workforce, or considering a change to your current profession, there are many resources at your disposal to help prepare you for high-demand, high-wage career pathways in Michigan."

Individuals of all ages are encouraged to check out the Michigan Career and Education Pathfinder (Pathfinder) at Pathfinder.MiTalent.org to explore careers and identify educational opportunities throughout the state. Pathfinder was enhanced this fall to better support residents looking to make informed choices about educational and career options. This free tool uses current information related to employment and the workforce, as well as data about the relationship between education and training programs. It allows visitors to better match skills to career paths and jobs.

"All Michiganders should be able to discover successful pathways to high-demand, high-wage careers," said Stephanie Beckhorn, Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's (LEO) Office of Employment and Training. "Career exploration tools are crucial in helping individuals find the path that suits them best, regardless of where they are at in their lives."

LEO works closely with the Michigan Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives, within the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget, to highlight career and labor trends in the state. These include Michigan's Hot 50 report, which covers high-demand, high-wage careers that show a favorable mix of long-term job growth, projected annual job openings, and median wages; Michigan's Career Outlook report, which provides multiple lists of in-demand occupations by education and training requirements; and Regional Career Outlook reports, which provides a breakdown of career outlook data in each of the state's 10 regions.

For those looking for job opportunities available in the state, they should visit Pure Michigan Talent Connect. Found at MiTalent.org, this is the state's system for connecting Michigan job seekers and employers. There are more than 100,000 jobs on the site right now.

Career Exploration and Awareness Month also ties into Gov. Whitmer's Sixty by 30 goal, which aims to increase the percentage of adults in the state with a postsecondary degree or credential by the year 2030. Michiganders interested in education beyond high school to gain the skills they need for rewarding careers are encouraged to explore free education and training resources like Skills to Work and the Michigan Reconnect program that provides free tuition to Michiganders age 25 and older.