LANSING, Mich. – Recognizing growing talent needs, Business Leaders for Michigan (BLM) engaged Public Sector Consultants to research and analyze the job training programs of other states who lead on talent attraction and retention. The result was a report that identified best practices and recommendations to boost Michigan’s profile in supporting global businesses in search of talent. One of the top recommendations called for the development, funding and promotion of a one-stop shop specifically for talent recruitment and training, which the Michigan Strategic Fund today established as the Jobs Ready Michigan program.
“It’s imperative that employers looking to locate new sites or expand existing operations have a bank of talent to tap into without having to conduct exhaustive searches for skilled employees,” said Doug Rothwell, President & CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan. “Establishing this resource allows large operations to staff up and hit the ground running in Michigan, making us an even more attractive place for business.”
Working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, BLM helped to lay the foundation for Jobs Ready and applauds the Michigan Strategic Fund’s actions today in authorizing an initial round of funding. Promotion of the effort will engage site selectors and other industry professionals who specialize in helping companies choose where to establish new jobs.
“Our largest employers know the importance of building a robust talent pipeline and investing to further develop and attract talent,” Rothwell said. “Without a deep bench, Michigan will cease to be an attractive location for new business ventures. Adding a consolidated jobs training program to our repertoire is a solid investment that will boost our global profile.”
About Business Leaders for Michigan:
Business Leaders for Michigan, the state’s business roundtable, is dedicated to making Michigan a “Top Ten” state for jobs, personal income and a healthy economy. The organization is composed exclusively of the chairpersons, chief executive officers, or most senior executives of Michigan’s largest companies and universities. Our members drive nearly one-third of the state’s economy, provide 390,000 direct jobs in Michigan, generate over $1 trillion in annual revenue and serve nearly half of all Michigan public university students. Find out more at: www.businessleadersformichigan.com.