Michiganders encouraged to explore high-wage, in-demand pathways during Career Exploration and Awareness Month

April 07, 2026

Pathfinder, the state’s free career exploration tool, prepares job seekers for bright futures in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. — To highlight the state’s increasing demand for skilled talent and the wide range of programs supporting residents in pursuing employment, training and educational opportunities, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to encourage Michiganders to discover the many career pathways available to them during April’s celebration of Career Exploration and Awareness Month.

“In Michigan, we’re working hard to ensure all Michiganders have access to the tools they need to get good-paying jobs,” said Gov. Whitmer. “This April, I encourage every Michigander to explore opportunities for their future as part of Career Exploration and Awareness Month. Whether you’re a young student mapping out your future, thinking about re-entering the workforce, or changing your current profession, Michigan has what you need to succeed, from Pathfinder to workforce programs like Michigan Reconnect. Let’s keep working together to help more workers and families ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

LEO is celebrating Career Exploration and Awareness Month by promoting programs and resources that connect Michiganders with rewarding career opportunities. Throughout April, LEO will highlight initiatives designed to help individuals explore in-demand industries, develop new skills and access the support they need to succeed in today’s evolving job market.

“During Career Exploration and Awareness Month and beyond, we’re committed to helping Michiganders build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in today’s job market," said Susan Corbin, Director of LEO. “By ensuring Michiganders have access to the information, resources and opportunities they need to pursue rewarding careers in today’s high-demand, high-wage industries, we empower individuals to take control of their professional journeys while strengthening the state’s long-term economic competitiveness.”

To learn more about in-demand careers and education needed to land these jobs, Michiganders are encouraged to check out Pathfinder, LEO’s career exploration tool. This free online resource helps users create an individualized career roadmap and provides information to students, parents, school staff and career counselors to make informed choices about educational and career options.

“Pathfinder is a unique resource that helps people of all ages discover paths to life-changing careers, industries, education and training, right here in our great state,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. “By expanding access to high-quality training and career development opportunities, we’re opening doors to good-paying, in-demand jobs. When people succeed, our communities and economy grow stronger – and we’re here to support you every step of the journey.”

There are a variety of valuable resources to help Michiganders follow career and labor trends. These include Michigan’s Hot 50 Job Outlook report, which showcases the top in-demand, high-wage occupations expected to see significant growth through 2032; Michigan’s Career Outlook report, which provides multiple lists of in-demand occupations by education and training requirements; and Regional Career Outlook reports, which provide a breakdown of career outlook data in each of the state’s 10 regions.

Individuals who are currently seeking job opportunities should visit Pure Michigan Talent Connect, where they can find more than 80,000 active openings.

Visit LEO’s Employment and Training website to learn more about programs and resources available to help Michiganders connect to career opportunities.

Labor and Economic Opportunity MI Newswire Labor and Economic Opportunity Workforce Development Media Contact:

Mike Murray

murraym15@michigan.gov

517-449-8231

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