Join the Movement: Survey to Shape Michigan’s Future Automotive Workforce

The Future of Michigan’s Automotive Workforce is Now

As Michigan stands on the cusp of a revolutionary shift in its automotive industry, the imperative to prepare and adapt the workforce has never been more evident. The Center for Automotive Research (CAR), in collaboration with Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Automotive Workforce Hub, is spearheading a significant statewide survey aimed at shaping the future of the state's automotive workforce amid ongoing transitions predominantly toward electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced production technologies.

Why Your Input Matters

The upcoming survey, which invites responses from employers throughout Michigan’s automotive supply chain, is critical to pinpointing how shifts in the industry are affecting labor needs. In an ecosystem covering upstream sectors like materials and processes, core manufacturing, and downstream operations such as vehicle sales and maintenance, insights gathered will inform future workforce strategies aimed at maintaining Michigan’s leadership in the automotive sector. With a deadline for participation set for October 31, this is a unique opportunity for employers to directly influence state policy and support the local economy.

Historical Context and Transition to Electric Vehicles

With the automotive sector traditionally serving as the backbone of Michigan’s economy, the shift towards electric vehicles represents both a challenge and an opportunity. In 2022, job growth in Michigan’s clean vehicle sector surged by 14.4%, marking it as the state’s fastest-growing job sector. Such remarkable growth highlights the demand for a well-trained workforce that can effectively navigate the technological complexities introduced by electric vehicles and advanced automation. The integration of clean technologies is not just a trend; it’s a necessary evolution for the survival of the Michigan automotive identity.

Preparing for New Workforce Needs

Recent initiatives have focused on upskilling and reskilling the existing workforce to align with the requirements of advanced manufacturing. The establishment of the Community and Worker Economic Transition Office aims to address emerging challenges while amplifying the economic benefits for workers. Michigan’s statewide workforce plan emphasizes a proactive approach, ensuring that current auto workers can transition smoothly into roles in clean mobility—that is, both electric vehicles and related technology production.

Local Insight: The Story Behind the Machines

For those involved in the automotive industry, the transition to cleaner technologies resonates on a personal level. In Michigan, families have legacies tied to the industry, exemplified by stories shared from generations of workers. These poignant narratives serve as a reminder of the transition’s human aspect; the evolution from manual labor to more technical roles has implications not only for productivity but also for family livelihoods.

What’s Next? Opportunities within Transition

The Biden administration’s announcement of Michigan being designated as a national Electric Vehicle Workforce Hub underscores the significance of state-wide collaboration in this transition. This designation is coupled with federal investments aimed to bolster small and medium-sized automotive suppliers looking to pivot towards the clean mobility market. As we look towards the future, Michigan aims to retain high-quality jobs while being a powerhouse of innovation in automotive technology.

Making Choices: Engaging with the Survey

Engaging with the upcoming CAR survey is not just an opportunity; it’s a responsibility for employers and stakeholders within the automotive ecosystem. By contributing views and experiences, you help shape the strategies that will forge a sustainable workforce. The insights from this survey will find their way into policies and initiatives designed to foster growth, resilience, and skill development throughout Michigan.

Conclusion: Your Role in Shaping the Future

As Michigan's automotive industry pivots towards electric mobility, the support for workforce transformation is paramount. By participating in this survey, you contribute to a collective drive towards an inclusive and capable workforce prepared to meet the evolving demands of the automotive landscape. In doing so, you are not just preserving jobs; you are ensuring that Michigan continues to lead in automotive innovation.