Michigan LEO News

Supplier Conversion Grants Deadline Extended to April 28

The Michigan Community and Worker Economic Transition Office extended the application deadline for the Michigan Supplier Conversion Grant Program to April 28, 2026 at 3 p.m. EDT. The program allocates $22.6 million in federal Department of Energy funding to help small and medium-sized automotive manufacturers retool facilities for electric vehicle supply chains.

Michigan promotes career pathways, free Pathfinder tool available

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity announced Career Exploration and Awareness Month in April 2026, promoting the free Pathfinder career exploration tool and other workforce development resources including Michigan Reconnect, the Hot 50 Job Outlook report, and regional career outlook reports. The initiative aims to connect Michiganders with in-demand, high-wage career pathways and training opportunities across the state.

Cintas Westland wins MVPP Star workplace safety award

MIOSHA awarded Cintas Corporation K15 in Westland the Michigan Voluntary Protection Program (MVPP) Star Award, recognizing exemplary workplace safety and health management. The facility employs 95 workers and provides contamination control garment processing services supporting pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and electronics industries. Only 29 worksites across Michigan currently hold MVPP Star status, MIOSHA's highest workplace safety recognition.

Michigan Organizations Receive Grants for Employee Transportation Programs

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) awarded $60,000 in grant funding through the Reliable Rides Incentive Grant Pilot Program to three organizations for developing employee transportation programs. Each recipient receives $20,000 to implement workforce transportation initiatives targeting employment barriers. Recipients include Grace Emmanuel Baptist Church (Flint), LM Manufacturing (Detroit), and Manthei Wood Products (Petoskey).

Women in Michigan Workforce Report - Pay Gaps and Childcare Barriers

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity published its 2026 Women in the Michigan Workforce report, showing women represent nearly half the state labor force. The report documents a pay gap of 79 cents per dollar earned by men, with women's median earnings at $52,390 compared to $66,130 for men. The gap widened from 82 cents in 2023 as men's earnings grew faster at 5.9% versus 2.8% for women.

State Seeks Developer Proposals for Grand Ledge Commercial Site

The State Land Bank Authority (SLBA) is seeking developer proposals for the redevelopment of a former gas station site in Grand Ledge, Michigan. The property has undergone demolition and environmental assessment, and proposals are due by April 8, 2026.

Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency 2025 Annual Report

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) released its 2025 Annual Report detailing improvements in unemployment insurance services for workers and employers. The report highlights key performance metrics compared to U.S. Department of Labor targets, including payment timeliness, appeal resolution, and reemployment rates.

Michigan Career and Technical Institute Graduation Ceremony

The Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) celebrated the graduation of 80 students who completed in-demand training programs. These programs aim to prepare individuals with disabilities for competitive employment in fields such as Certified Nursing Assistant and Culinary Arts.

State Land Bank Authority Seeks Developer Proposals for Grand Ledge Commercial Site

The State Land Bank Authority (SLBA) is seeking developer proposals for the redevelopment of a former gas station site in Grand Ledge, Michigan. Proposals are due by April 8, 2026, and should focus on enhancing the community and representing the highest and best use of the property.

Michigan Labor Department Named NIOSH Total Worker Health Affiliate

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) has been named a NIOSH Total Worker Health Affiliate, making it the first state labor department to receive this designation. This recognition highlights Michigan's leadership in integrating mental health into workplace safety and health strategies.