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Michigan Business Leaders Grapple with Talent Shortage and Automation

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/17 .. grapple-with-talent-shortage-and-automation.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 0:49 GMT by inforum
      Locales: Connecticut, Massachusetts, UNITED STATES

Detroit, MI - February 17th, 2026 - Michigan business leaders convened yesterday at an Inforum event to dissect the state's current economic situation, revealing a landscape defined by a persistent talent shortage, a rapidly accelerating embrace of automation, and a cautiously optimistic outlook for future growth. The discussion underscored the complex interplay of these factors, painting a picture of an economy adapting to both challenges and opportunities.

For years, Michigan has faced difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled labor. This issue, once largely concentrated in specific sectors like advanced manufacturing, has now broadened, impacting industries across the board - from healthcare and technology to professional services and logistics. Panelists highlighted the multi-faceted nature of the shortage, citing factors like an aging workforce, a skills gap between available workers and employer needs, and outward migration of young professionals seeking opportunities elsewhere.

"We're seeing a real squeeze," explained Sarah Chen, CEO of AutoTech Innovations, a leading automotive supplier. "Finding qualified technicians, engineers, and even skilled tradespeople is becoming increasingly difficult. It's not just about the number of applicants, but the quality of the skillset. We're competing nationally and globally for talent."

This scarcity of labor is directly impacting the ability of Michigan companies to expand, innovate, and even maintain current production levels. The inability to fill critical roles is forcing businesses to either scale back growth plans or seek alternative solutions. That's where automation enters the equation.

Automation and robotics are no longer considered a futuristic concept, but a present-day necessity for many Michigan businesses. Companies are investing heavily in technologies like robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced manufacturing systems to streamline operations, increase efficiency, and compensate for the lack of available workers. While this adoption is boosting productivity and reducing operational costs in the short term, it also raises crucial questions about the future of work and the need for workforce retraining.

"Automation isn't about replacing people entirely," clarified David Miller, President of the Michigan Manufacturers Association. "It's about augmenting our workforce, allowing employees to focus on higher-value tasks that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. However, that requires a significant investment in reskilling and upskilling initiatives to prepare workers for the jobs of tomorrow."

The discussion also addressed the broader economic outlook for Michigan. Despite ongoing headwinds - including persistent inflation, lingering supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical instability - panelists expressed a degree of cautious optimism. They pointed to the state's inherent strengths, such as its diversified economy, robust manufacturing base, and growing innovation ecosystem, as key drivers of future growth.

Several speakers highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships between businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies. Collaborative initiatives focused on workforce development, STEM education, and attracting and retaining talent are crucial for ensuring Michigan's long-term economic competitiveness. There was also discussion surrounding the need for policies that foster innovation, reduce regulatory burdens, and create a more attractive business climate.

"Michigan has a tremendous amount of potential," stated Emily Carter, Director of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. "We have a skilled workforce, a strong manufacturing heritage, and a growing entrepreneurial spirit. But we need to work together to address the challenges we face and capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead. Investing in our people, fostering innovation, and building a resilient economy are paramount."

The panel emphasized that addressing the talent shortage and embracing automation are not isolated issues, but interconnected components of a broader economic strategy. A successful approach will require a holistic and forward-thinking vision, prioritizing workforce development, technological innovation, and strategic collaboration to ensure Michigan's continued prosperity in the years to come. The key takeaway? Michigan's future isn't simply about overcoming obstacles, but about proactively shaping a new economic landscape that leverages technology and human capital to create a thriving and sustainable future.