AI and the Workforce Plan will create good-paying jobs, invest in workforce and enhance Michigan’s economic growth

• New AI plan aims to help Michigan gain up to $70 billion in economic impact and create 130,000 good-paying jobs
• In the next 5 to 10 years, AI is expected to reshape up to 2.8 million jobs in the state

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich - Building on Michigan’s Statewide Workforce Plan, the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) released the AI and the Workforce Plan to take advantage of the opportunities for growth presented by widespread adoption of artificial intelligence technologies. If Michigan takes the lead in developing AI strategy, infrastructure and workforce training, the state could gain up to $70 billion in economic impact and create 130,000 good-paying jobs. Michigan continues to be a leader nationally in workforce development, and this report is elevating current workforce development initiatives and identifying potential future actions as a part of comprehensive approach to enhance Michigan’s economic growth.

“Working with AI technology helps prepare our workforce to lead with the skills and tools Michiganders need to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy,” said Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II. “Through investing in our workforce and the evolving needs of employers in our state, we are ensuring everyone has a fair chance at economic mobility and a better future so anyone can make it in Michigan.” 

In the next 5 to 10 years, AI is expected to reshape up to 2.8 million jobs in the state. Manufacturing, a key part of Michigan’s economy, will especially need workers to learn new skills — about 75% of jobs in that sector will require some form of upskilling, even though only a small number may be fully automated. AI and automation are closely linked, with AI enabling machines to take on not just simple tasks, but also more complex ones.

“Michigan needs to take action now to make sure we stay ahead in the future – creating a resilient economy for our residents and employers,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “Our future competitiveness is built upon how we learn, leverage and lead in building skills for an AI-enabled economy. By modernizing training infrastructure and making learning flexible, accessible and adaptable to real-world job demands, we’re fueling growth and creating an economy for Michigan that is strong and stable for generations to come.”

The AI plan is built on three pillars:

1. Invest in skill development for the AI economy.

   Michigan’s ability to stay competitive in an AI-driven economy depends on how well it builds and adapts its workforce through modern, accessible and real-world training. By embedding AI skills into education and ensuring broad access across communities, the state can boost economic mobility and lead in the future of work.

2. Understand and guide the workforce landscape for knowledge and skilled trade workers.

   AI is influencing how work is performed across all sectors in Michigan — not just by changing how tasks are completed, but by transforming how work is done. By proactively preparing workers with adaptable skills and clear pathways into growing industries, Michigan can lead this transition and ensure everyone has a chance to succeed in the evolving economy.

3. Enable businesses to adapt to the AI economy.

AI can boost Michigan’s economic competitiveness, but many small and medium-sized businesses lack the resources to adopt it effectively. By providing support like technical assistance and shared tools, Michigan can help these businesses grow, innovate and create jobs — ensuring they play a key role in the state’s AI-driven future.

Through action, embracing AI and its transformative power can accelerate workforce development and drive economic growth. Michigan is currently No. 1 in the nation in credential attainment for adults, No. 3 in the nation for helping adults get employed and top 10 in the nation for Registered Apprenticeships. Michigan is ready to make our state prepared for the future — by embracing the potential of AI, we have the chance to boost workforce development and support inclusive economic growth.

"Figuring out how to implement and leverage new AI strategies in an effective way is essential to small business growth and success in Michigan," said President & CEO of the Small Business Association of Michigan Brian Calley. AI continues to open up opportunities that didn't exist before and it's imperative to use it as a tool to support the creativity, ingenuity, and high-quality customer service that small business owners provide to their communities every day.  We appreciate the Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity for their leadership in starting this important discussion that has the opportunity to transform how business is done now and into the future."

By weaving AI into our education, training and business systems, we can help people gain the skills they need to succeed in today’s job market and prepare for the opportunities of the future.

“Preparing Michiganders for an AI-enabled economy means investing in education at every stage, from early exposure to STEM to providing accessible pathways to postsecondary education and training,” said Director of the Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea. “At MiLEAP, we’re committed to helping people gain the skills and credentials that lead to good-paying, high-demand jobs. By removing barriers and expanding access to lifelong learning, we’re empowering individuals to lead, innovate and contribute meaningfully to our state’s future success.”

"Michigan has a storied history of adapting business processes to new technology. With the new AI and the Workforce Plan, we can continue to push the boundaries of innovation in the AI transition, while working alongside our network of trusted partners to lead this transition responsibly," said Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Senior Vice President of Regional Development Matt McCauley. "As a top ten state for research and development and home to recent investments including a $1.2 billion AI research facility outside of Ann Arbor, we can and will lead the emerging AI economy. If you want to make AI part of your business, we want you to 'make it' in Michigan."

View the AI and the Workforce Plan online.