Michigan Infrastructure Council Builds Coalition of More Than 600 Infrastructure Champions Across the State

LANSING, MI – Michigan’s infrastructure is more than just concrete, pipes and steel; it's about building a stronger, more sustainable and more prosperous state for generations to come through the adoption of asset management and a commitment to proactive stewardship of our infrastructure. Currently, more than 600 Michiganders are working across the state to advocate for infrastructure asset management—and that number is expected to grow. The Michigan Infrastructure Council (MIC) today announced the launch of its eighth Asset Management (AM) Champions cohort, consisting of over 110 individuals from the Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

The journey to improve infrastructure begins with equipping practitioners with knowledge and understanding of asset management. The AM Champions program offers free training to public and private sector employees on asset management best practices and how to assess their current organizational practices utilizing the Asset Management Readiness Scale (AMRS). Participants who complete the course can earn 2.5 continuing education credits for drinking water operators, approved by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). Professional Engineer (PE) credits are also available, making the program a valuable tool for professional development in the infrastructure field.

The goal of the program is to develop infrastructure leaders who are empowered to champion organizational change at a local level. With demand for the training continuing to grow, Cohort 08 reached full capacity with over 110 participants. MIC is now building a waitlist for individuals interested in joining the next cohort, which is scheduled to launch in January 2026.

"The AM Champions Program is reshaping how Michigan thinks about and invests in infrastructure,” said MIC Chair Palencia Mobley, P.E. “By fostering a culture of collaboration, long-term thinking and shared responsibility, we’re empowering communities and practitioners across the state to make more informed and sustainable infrastructure investment decisions that stand the test of time.”

Safe, reliable, and affordable infrastructure services are the foundation of thriving communities and economic prosperity. Infrastructure assets support daily lives, fuel businesses and safeguard the environment. Historical underinvestment in maintenance has shortened the lifespan of infrastructure and made it hard to meet the demands of a growing state, but asset management offers a powerful solution. Creating a network of asset management champions is helping Michigan unlock the full potential of our infrastructure, leading to economic growth and an improved quality of life.

“The Asset Management Champion course has provided me with practical tools to help craft a comprehensive asset management plan for our community,” said AM Champion and City of Charlevoix Manager Mark L. Heydlauff. “I have always thought about the water, sewer, streets and electric infrastructure, but this course caused me to think more holistically. I'm sure this will help us make better and more thoughtful long-range infrastructure decisions.”

Whether it is maintaining a road, modernizing a water system or preparing for future growth, Michigan’s AM Champions are helping avoid costly conflicts and deliver more efficient infrastructure solutions. By learning how to “plan better, dig once and achieve more,” they are setting a new standard for how infrastructure is managed in Michigan. 

For more information about the Asset Management Champions Program, please visit www.michigan.gov/mic/am-champions. To join the asset management champions waitlist for the next cohort scheduled for January 2026, please apply by filling out the Infrastructure Asset Management Champions Program (AM Champions) Waitlist form.

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About the Michigan Infrastructure Council

Cultivating partnerships that strengthen Michigan's Infrastructure to provide the foundation for public and environmental health, economic prosperity and quality of life.