Michigan AI Workforce Plan: New data and state’s progress highlight nation-leading pro-worker strategy

AI job demand is growing across nearly every region and industry in Michigan

State and local leaders highlight strategies to optimize Michigan’s AI opportunities and workforce plan wins

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. – State and local business leaders unveiled a new AI Data Trends in Michigan report today to continue efforts that prepare workers, employers and communities for rapid changes and opportunities driven by artificial intelligence and automation while ensuring economic growth benefits all regions and industries across the state.

“Michigan has the nation’s most proactive, people-first approach to artificial intelligence in the workplace. Our plan invests in workers, supports businesses and modernizes workforce systems so Michiganders can succeed in an AI-driven economy,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “The new data shows that most jobs are expected to evolve, not disappear, which makes training our workforce and ensuring adaptability essential to future success.”

The new data prepared by Lightcast, the world’s leading authority on labor market trends, talent intelligence and skills in demand, shows AI job demand is growing across nearly every region and industry in Michigan, with small and mid-sized businesses seeing the fastest increase in demand for AI-related skills. It also shows that Michigan’s economy is rapidly increasing its demand for artificial intelligence skills across both large employers and small businesses.

The report also found that while AI job demand nationwide grew by 120% between 2023 and 2025, growth was even stronger in Michigan’s Capital region and Detroit area, which saw increases of 138% and 162% respectively.

AI Data Trends Key Takeaways:

• Michigan workers currently report AI skills at lower rates than national averages, highlighting the need for broader statewide upskilling and workforce training.
• About 10% of Michigan’s workforce is in jobs with high AI exposure, particularly office and administrative support roles where tasks are likely to be transformed — creating both challenges and opportunities for career advancement through retraining.
• The healthcare industry has the most variety of AI exposure occupations – the highest concentration of employment in both high and low exposure occupations.
• Employers are increasingly looking for leadership, communication, innovation and workflow management, paired with foundational AI and digital competencies – companies need workers who can use AI to enhance productivity, not just specialists who build AI models.

"The future of work isn't coming – it’s here," said Michigan Works! Association CEO Ryan Hundt. "Michigan Works! Agencies are ensuring Michiganders have the training they need to get and keep good-paying jobs, and that Michigan employers have the talent they need to compete."

Small businesses are also accelerating AI adoption, with demand for AI skills more than tripling across six of Michigan’s eight priority industries, with Michigan’s growth in AI demand outpacing the national rate in agriculture, construction, energy, hospitality and outdoor recreation and mobility.

“Small businesses are the very core of our economy, but many entrepreneurs need access to the right tools, training and resources to fully understand and take advantage of emerging technologies like AI,” said Small Business Association of Michigan President and CEO Brian Calley. “By providing small businesses with the support they need to adopt innovation and compete in a rapidly changing economy, we are helping them grow, create jobs and build stronger communities across our state.”

Michigan’s advanced manufacturing, construction, energy and mobility industries are seeking AI-related talent at rates higher than the national average, reflecting Michigan’s growing leadership in technology-driven industries.

“The data shows significant AI skill needs in areas like automation systems, data literacy and engineering,” said Michigan Manufacturing Technical Center President Ingrid Tighe. “Using and investing in this data has a ripple effect by ensuring we’re meeting the needs of employers and helping employees thrive in a modern and evolving economy.”

This data builds on the progress of Michigan's AI and the Workforce Plan unveiled at last year’s Mackinac Policy Conference. The plan outlines a roadmap 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 elevates current workforce development initiatives and identifies potential future actions as a part of comprehensive approach to enhance Michigan’s economic growth.

AI and the Workforce Plan Progress

In just one year since that plan was launched, Michigan: 

• Expanded statewide access to AI and digital skills training through all 16 Michigan Works! Agencies in partnership with Google Career Certificates;
• Awarded a $500,000 regional innovation grant to advance digital literacy, AI training and apprenticeship connections in the Thumb and Saginaw Bay regions;
• Designed a plan to integrate AI capabilities, including chatbot communication and personalized services, into the modernization of Pure Michigan Talent Connect;
• Launched the State of Michigan’s first AI-powered chatbot through the Unemployment Insurance Agency to improve customer service for workers and employers; and
• Secured more than $1.8 billion in combined federal and private investment to expand high-speed internet access and help more Michiganders participate in the AI economy.

Visit Michigan.gov/AIWorkforcePlan to learn more.