HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 161

Reps. DeBoer, Breen, Fox, Glanville, Paiz, Rogers and Weiss offered the following resolution:

A resolution to declare September 2025 as Workforce Development Month in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, In an increasingly technology-driven global economy, a strong and skilled workforce is the foundation of Michigan?s competitive edge within the global marketplace; and

Whereas, From manufacturing and mobility to information technology, construction, and advanced agriculture, Michigan?s evolving economy relies on a dynamic and well-supported workforce to meet the demands of the 21st century; and

Whereas, Workforce Development Month recognizes the critical role that education, training, apprenticeships, and career readiness programs play in preparing Michiganders for high-quality, in-demand jobs across the state, and celebrates the importance of workforce development programs and the ways they contribute to the growth of Michigan?s residents and economy; and

Whereas, Michigan is ranked eighth in the nation for its skilled trades workforce, which is nearly 255,000 strong. It is through the recruiting, training and retention efforts done by programs through career technical education in secondary schools, community colleges, public-private partnerships, and private employers that Michigan?s workers are equipped for current and future opportunities; and

Whereas, Grand Rapids Community College serves as an excellent example of a regional talent engine that feeds Michigan?s robust manufacturing and innovation centers. The college supported over 12,000 students in the 2023-2024 academic year alone and offers a wide variety of job training programs; and

Whereas, Workforce development is essential not only to the economy but also to ensuring upward mobility and financial independence for individuals and families in every corner of the state; and

Whereas, It is appropriate to celebrate the individuals, institutions, and partnerships that work day in and day out to connect people with career pathways, close the talent gap, and strengthen communities throughout Michigan; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That members of this legislative body declare September 2025 as Workforce Development Month in the state of Michigan.