Manufacturing Day Introduces Students to Career Opportunities

Manufacturing Day Introduces Students to Career Opportunities

by | Sep 30, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County Manufacturing Day Introduces High School Students to Rewarding Career Opportunities Amid Skilled Worker Shortage

Post Date:09/30/2025 12:14 PM

 

MFGDay

 

  • Since 2015, more than 11,000 students have participated in Oakland County Manufacturing Day, with nearly 150 employers hosting tours.
  • Participants receive a close-up look at the jobs of engineers, technicians, skilled trade employees and support staff and step into design labs, testing centers, production pods and other manufacturing environments.
  • There will be 2.4 million unfilled manufacturing positions in the United States by 2028, according to a recent report by the Skilled Careers Coalition.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Manufacturing Day will host more than 1,000 students from 20 high schools and the Oakland Schools Technical Center campuses set to visit 34 advanced manufacturing facilities on Friday, Oct. 3.

Introducing local students to careers in advanced manufacturing is critical, given that the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity reports skilled trade positions will account for 47,000 annual job openings in Michigan through 2028.  Nationwide, there will be 2.4 million unfilled manufacturing positions in the United States by 2028, according to a recent report by the Skilled Careers Coalition.

“Manufacturers from around the world are locating new and expanded operations in Oakland County and across Southeast Michigan,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter.  “The need for skilled workers is stronger than ever.  Events like Manufacturing Day are a perfect way for young people to pique their interests and begin the journey to a fulfilling career.”

Since 2015, more than 11,000 students have participated in Oakland County Manufacturing Day. The event has highlighted nearly 150 employers, which have hosted tours that give students a firsthand look at modern manufacturing operations and potential career paths.  Participants receive a close-up look at the jobs of engineers, technicians, skilled trade employees and support staff during a three-hour visit to a facility. Students step into design labs, testing centers, production pods and other manufacturing environments.

“Manufacturing Day reflects the vital connection between education and industry,” said Oakland Schools Superintendent Kenneth Gutman. “By engaging with more than 30 employer partners, Oakland County students gain a deeper understanding of the advanced skills, technologies, and career pathways shaping the future of manufacturing. This partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and experiences they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.”

The 2025 roster of tour hosts includes 3-Dimensional Services Group; ABB; AirBoss Flexible Products; AkzoNobel; American Axle and Manufacturing; Ascent Aerospace; Atlas Copco; Atlas Copco Tools and Assembly Systems; Barron Industries; Brose North America; Cosma Body Assembly Michigan; Durr Systems Inc; FANUC America Corporation; FATA Automation, Inc.; HIROTEC America; Hi-Tech Mold & Engineering Inc; Humanetics; JR Automation; MacLean-Fogg; Mayville Engineering Company; Moeller Aerospace; NLB Corp.; Oakland Community College; Oerlikon; Pratt Miller; PROFIL; Signarama, Troy- Metro Detroit; Star Cutter Company; Three M Tool and Machine; Triple Inc.; TSM Corporation; Webasto Convertibles USA Inc.; Williams International and Witzenmann.

“Oakland County does a great job organizing Manufacturing Day for students, and we love being part of it,” said Erin Stanforth, a Senior HR Generalist at MacLean-Fogg. “Hosting students gives us the chance to show what manufacturing is all about and the many career paths available after high school. We look forward to continuing this partnership and seeing the benefits it brings to students and the future workforce.”

Oakland County Michigan Works!, the Oakland County Department of Economic Development, Oakland Schools and Oakland Community College have partnered to organize this year’s event. Financial sponsors include Ascent Aerospace, Humanetics, PROFIL, Triple Inc., Williams International and Witzenmann.

For more information, visit OakGov.com/MfgDay or MfgDay.com (national website). Follow the event on social media: #MFGDay25, #MfgOak.

Flags Lowered to Honor Victims of the Shooting in Grand Blanc

Flags Lowered to Honor Victims of the Shooting in Grand Blanc

by | Sep 29, 2025 | Regional News

Office of the Governor (no photo)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 28, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Victims of the Shooting in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across the State of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff immediately to honor and remember the victims of the shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township in Genesee County. Flags should be lowered through Friday, October 3, 2025.

 

“My heart is breaking for this community,” said Governor Whitmer. “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable. I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly. To honor those we have lost, I am ordering flags to be lowered across Michigan. Our state is in mourning alongside the victims, their families, and the entire community in Grand Blanc Township.”

 

“I am devastated by the shooting this morning that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Such a horrific act of violence—towards anyone, anywhere—is unjustified. I’m grateful to the local police officers, fire, and EMS for their quick response. Let’s keep holding each other close.”

 

The State of Michigan remembers the victims and stands in solidarity with the community of Grand Blanc Township by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations are also encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

 

To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.

 

Flags should be returned to full staff on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist II Receives Shirley Chisholm Award

Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist II Receives Shirley Chisholm Award

by | Sep 25, 2025 | Regional News

LG Header 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 25, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II Receives Shirley Chisholm Award, Reflecting Commitment to Working Class Michiganders

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist received the Shirley Chisholm Award from the National Congress of Black Women (NCBW). As Michigan’s first Black lieutenant governor, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist follows in the footsteps of Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazing activist who dedicated her life to advancing women’s rights, civil rights, and more.

 

“Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazing leader who fought tirelessly for justice and stood tall for working Americans,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “She was the first Black woman to be elected to Congress and the first to run for a major party’s nomination for President. Her courage, conviction, and compassion are a legacy for us all to remember. As Michigan’s first Black lieutenant governor, I’m proud to follow in her footsteps and work every day to help more people stay and succeed in Michigan. Let us keep striving every day to build a better future for all.”

 

Shirley Chisholm Award

Shirley Chisholm was born in Brooklyn, New Yok in 1928. In 1968, she was elected as the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. During her time representing New York’s 12th district, she served as a founding member of both the Congressional Black Caucus and the National Women’s Political Caucus. In 1972, she decided to run for president, becoming the first African American to run for a major party’s nomination for President of the United States. Throughout her career, Chisholm fought for justice and working-class American families, pioneering nutrition programs for low-income moms and kids. She leaves a lasting legacy for her no-nonsense approach to governance and signature slogan, “unbought and unbossed.”

 

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist espouses many of these values as the first Black lieutenant governor of Michigan. Trained as a software engineer, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist was inspired by Shirley Chisholm and the legacy she left behind. He eventually quit his job at Microsoft and trained to be a community organizer, so he could follow in her footsteps. Eventually, he ran alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer and was elected to the second highest office in the state of Michigan. Since taking office, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist has championed criminal justice reform, affordable housing, internet connectivity, and more. The Shirley Chisholm Award is a reflection of his commitment to serving working Michiganders, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to work, live, and invest in our state.

 

National Congress of Black Women

NCBW was founded in 1984 by Shirley Chisholm and Dr. Dolores Tucker. The organization is dedicated to the educational, political, economic and cultural development of African American women and their families. Created to ensure Black women have a powerful voice in leadership and policy, NCBW continues its mission of preparing women for leadership roles at every level of government, business, and community service.

 

The Metro Detroit Congress of Black Women

The Metro Detroit Congress of Black Women proudly carries forward Congresswoman Chisholm’s mission. In her spirit, they remain dedicated to using our voices with clarity and conviction—working on behalf of families, communities, and country. The Metro Detroit Congress of Black Women are Unbought and Unbossed and are not backing down.

 

Whitmer-Gilchrist Administration’s Commitment to Michiganders

Since taking office, Governor Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist have been committed to fighting for Michiganders across the state, ensuring anyone can “make it in Michigan.” Together, we have:

  • Rolled back the retirement tax to save half a million households an average of $1000 a year
  • Fixed, replaced, or repaired more than 24,500 lane miles of road and over 1,900 bridges, creating a smoother, safer, and cheaper drive for Michiganders up and down the state.
  • Fed more than 1.4 million public school students free breakfast and lunch, saving parents an average of $850 a year.
  • Launched Operation Safe Neighborhoods, taking more than 850 illegal guns off of the streets and counting.
Local Governments to Sign Up for $720 Million Opioid Settlement

Local Governments to Sign Up for $720 Million Opioid Settlement

by | Sep 25, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 24, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Attorney General Nessel Urges Local Governments to Sign Up for $720 Million National Settlement from Eight Opioid Drug Makers Before October 8

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is urging eligible municipalities to participate in nationwide opioid settlements with eight drug makers before the October 8 deadline. By participating, eligible local governments will receive direct payments from the settlement, part of a nationwide $720 million agreement resolving litigation against the manufacturers for their role in the opioid crisis. Michigan governments stand to receive up to $24.5 million.

“These national settlements have already made a significant difference in the fight against the opioid epidemic,” Nessel said. “I hope that every eligible community signs on so we can maximize the resources available to save lives and support recovery across Michigan.”

The settlements from Mylan (now part of Viatris), Hikma, Amneal, Apotex, Indivior, Sun, Alvogen, and Zydus, allow 279 local units of government in Michigan – called subdivisions in the settlement agreement – to participate. The Department of Attorney General has a full list of eligible subdivisions on its website. Those subdivisions that need assistance with their participation forms may email the Department for additional instructions before the October 8 deadline.

Since taking office in 2019, Attorney General Nessel has focused intently on combatting the opioid epidemic and holding accountable those responsible for creating and fueling the crisis, resulting in more than $1.8 billion to Michigan governments through settlements with McKinsey & Co, Distributors (Cardinal Health, McKesson, Inc., and AmerisourceBergen), Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Allergan Pharmaceutical, CVS, Walmart, and Walgreens. The money is distributed to the state and local units of government for opioid-use disorder treatment and remediation.

Analysis of provisional data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) indicates a 34% reduction in overdose deaths between 2023 and 2024 – about 1,000 fewer deaths. This continued progress reflects the impact of sustained, strategic investment in prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm-reduction efforts – many of which are made possible through additional funding received as a result of Michigan’s participation in the national opioid settlements.
Historic MiABLE age expansion takes center stage in Troy

Historic MiABLE age expansion takes center stage in Troy

by | Sep 24, 2025 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2025

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Historic MiABLE age expansion takes center stage in Troy with veterans, ALS families among thousands poised to benefit from disability savings program change

An estimated 127,000 veterans and more Michiganders with later-in-life disability diagnoses will be eligible soon

TROY, Mich. — Families, advocates and community leaders gathered today at the Oakland Community Health Network in Troy to celebrate a major age expansion of MiABLE, Michigan’s disability savings program, and to enroll new participants on-site.

MiABLE, Michigan’s 529A savings program administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury, enables people with disabilities to save for education, housing, transportation, health care and other expenses without losing eligibility for Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income.

Despite an estimated 500,000 eligible Michiganders, only about 1% currently have accounts. Today’s event marked a statewide push to close that gap and highlighted a historic policy change. Beginning in 2026, MiABLE eligibility expands from age 26 to 46, nearly doubling the number of people who qualify.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau estimates for metro Detroit alone, more than 300,000 residents are eligible for MiABLE, with even more expected to qualify starting in 2026. That figure includes approximately 45,000 children with disabilities across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

Suzanne Weinert, director of communications and community outreach for Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN), opened the event by noting how the expansion aligns with the agency’s mission.

“At OCHN, our mission is to empower people with disabilities to live full, independent lives,” Weinert said. “MiABLE gives individuals and families the tools to plan for the future without fear of losing critical supports. This change means thousands more Oakland County residents will soon qualify, and we are proud to stand with MiABLE to make sure they do.”

State Rep. Sharon MacDonell, D-Troy, chair of the Legislative Disability Caucus, called the expansion a major victory for families.

“Financial insecurity impacts nearly every family I speak with who is caring for a loved one with disabilities,” MacDonell said. “MiABLE removes barriers, restores dignity and allows people to save without risking essential benefits. Expanding eligibility to age 46 means more families in our community can take control of their future.”

Michiganders living with ALS and disabled veterans — among the groups most affected by the expansion — underscored why the change matters to them and thousands of others in metro Detroit and across the state whose disability wasn’t diagnosed until after age 26.

“ALS is a devastating disease that often strikes between ages 40 and 70, with out-of-pocket costs estimated at $250,000,” said Kimberly Niemiec Graziosi, executive director of ALS of Michigan. “Until now, many families weren’t eligible for MiABLE because of age restrictions. With this change, families finally have a tool to save and invest with confidence while focusing on what truly matters — caring for their loved ones.”

Joanne Skippergosh, adjutant general for Michigan Disable American Veterans (DAV), emphasized how the expansion supports those who served.

“There are more than 127,000 veterans with disabilities in Michigan, and the median age of diagnosis is 42,” Skippergosh said. “Until now, that left many veterans out. MiABLE ensures that those who sacrificed for our country can also build stability for themselves and their families. It’s an overdue opportunity and one we should spread far and wide.”

Scott de Varona, MiABLE program director, urged attendees to take advantage of the change and enroll.

“MiABLE is more than a savings account. It’s about independence, dignity and control over your own future,” de Varona said. “With the new eligibility expansion, thousands of additional families, including veterans and those living with conditions like ALS, will finally have access. The best time to start saving with MiABLE was yesterday. The second-best time is today.”

MiABLE account owner Aaron Martinuzzi, who lives in Oakland County, shared his personal story about how the program allows him to plan for retirement and everyday needs without jeopardizing essential benefits.

“This isn’t just a program on paper. It works,” Martinuzzi said. “Opening an account gave me confidence and freedom to plan for my future without fear. I encourage every eligible family to take this step by enrolling.”

Today’s roadshow offered immediate enrollment assistance. Attendees also learned about MiABLE Perks, a new program offering exclusive discounts to account owners to enhance quality of life.

For more information or to open an account, visit Michigan.gov/MIABLE.

# # #

This service is provided to you at no charge by the Michigan Department of Treasury.Lansing, Michigan 48922 | 517-335-7508 | Contact Us

 Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

House Passage of Surrogate Consent Statute Legislation

House Passage of Surrogate Consent Statute Legislation

by | Sep 23, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 18, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Attorney General Nessel Applauds House Passage of Surrogate Consent Statute Legislation

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is praising the passage of House Bills 4418, 4419, and 4734 that create a surrogate consent statute. The legislation, which comes out of a subcommittee of the Elder Abuse Task Force, would help families make healthcare decisions while reducing the need for hospitals to go to court and the need for court-appointed attorneys.

“Far too often, Michigan families are forced into a courtroom during their most difficult moments,” Nessel said. “These bills establish a clear process for surrogate medical consent that protects vulnerable adults, improves patient care, and reduces unnecessary legal battles. I applaud the work of the Elder Abuse Task Force in championing these reforms and the House for taking action. I hope this package will now move swiftly in the Senate so this critical legislation can become law.”

The legislation will now advance to the Michigan Senate for consideration.

Michigan’s Elder Abuse Task Force launched in 2019 and consists of more than 55 different organizations in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors – all working together to combat elder abuse. The more than 100 individuals on the Task Force are divided into seven committees working diligently to accomplish nine initiatives (PDF), including requiring certification and training for professional guardians. Achievements include the following:

  • The adoption of a Vulnerable Adult Incident Report form for investigation by law enforcement across the state, including the implementation of related trainings;
  • The Financial Exploitation Prevention Act (FEPA): FEPA was signed into law in 2021 to ensure mandated reporting for financial institutions on suspected fraud or exploitation;
  • A complete re-write of the Power of Attorney statute; and
  • A statute to make securities brokers/dealers and financial advisors mandatory reporters of suspected financial exploitation of vulnerable adults.

More than 100,000 older adults in Michigan are victims of elder abuse. They experience abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Michigan residents seeking elder abuse resources are encouraged to call 800-24-ABUSE (22873), or 855-444-3911 to report suspected elder abuse.