Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Directive 2026-3, building on the work of the Michigan Civil Service Commission and directing state departments and agencies to engage in skills-based hiring in state government. Read the press release: ow.ly/MYOo50YZPy5

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and LEO proclaim May as Professional Trades Month, highlighting approximately 35,000 annual skilled trades openings through 2032 and encouraging Michiganders to explore high-wage, in-demand career paths.

The Rural Futures Summit, hosted by the Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity, brought together leaders from across the state to focus on what it takes to build strong, resilient rural communities. Stay tuned for future posts this week, highlighting the success of this summit.

Impacted by the Spirit Airlines closure? Get support from Michigan Works! and UIA with insurance claims, job search resources & more during one of the following sessions ⤵️ (1/3)

LEO has launched a new Youth Workers’ Rights Initiative, focused on preparing the next generation of workers with the knowledge and confidence they need to enter the workforce safely and successfully. Learn more: ow.ly/Jevo50YWya5.

As employers and workers navigate a challenging economy, Registered Apprenticeships are delivering results and helping Michiganders grow! 📰 Read more at ow.ly/58O550YR9xF. #NationalApprenticeshipWeek

Workplace Rights Week may be ending, but the work continues. This week we highlighted the rights that protect Michigan workers daily, from safety to fair pay to youth protections. When workers are informed, everyone benefits. Keep learning and subscribe: MI.gov/WorkplaceRights.

Fair pay isn’t optional — it’s the law. We’re highlighting the importance of fair wages and strong worker protections. Walk with us as we break it down in a Coffee Chat with Wage & Hour Division’s Administrator Andrew Niedzinski: youtu.be/OUVotNgvALo. #WorkplaceRightsWeek

LEO Director Susan Corbin visited Construction Career Days yesterday and spoke about connecting students with career paths including Registered Apprenticeships that allow students to earn while they learn on pathways to good-paying careers. Learn more: ow.ly/GO5k50YTC0I.

FAQs for filing a claim: ow.ly/lNf350YSA5A

Workers’ compensation exists to protect you when the unexpected happens. If you’re injured on the job, you may be entitled to: -Medical care -Wage replacement -Support during recovery Knowing what to do can make all the difference. Learn more : michigan.gov/wdca.

@gretchenwhitmer 👏👏👏

Michigan workers built this state, and they deserve safe workplaces, fair wages, and the freedom to organize for better protections. During Workplace Rights Week, we’re reaffirming that commitment and making sure every worker knows their rights, because worker empowerment builds stronger communities, a thriving middle class, and real pathways to prosperity.

Knowing your rights and how to file a claim is the first step to protecting them: ow.ly/2nxW50YS4v0. LEO and partners at the Michigan Department of Civil Rights look forward to sharing more ways to protect your rights throughout the rest of #WorkplaceRightsWeek.

FIRST is the world’s leading youth robotics community. It offers opportunities for young people to engage with and see what a career in STEM might look like. Join us in cheering for the MI robotics team at the FIRST Championship Worlds! Learn more: firstinspires.org.

It was a big weekend for STEM in Michigan during the state finals of the FIRST Robotics State Championship! Schools across the state competed for a spot at the world championship. Congrats to the winners who are representing MI at the world competition April, 29 - May, 2!

I met so many bright students today getting real, hands-on construction experience and exploring what a fulfilling career in the skilled trades could look like.

ICYMI: Newly added seminars from UIA will run daily and focus on activating MiUI accounts. Presenters will walk participants through finding their MiUI Activation Code and completing required setup steps. Learn more and find out how to sign up at go.mi.gov/zcpkh2391

2/2 From construction sites to offices, safe workplaces are built through training & accountability. Every worker deserves to go home safe at the end of the day. Special thanks to the MIOSHA team & Deputy Mayor of Lansing Christopher Mumby. Learn more: michigan.gov/MIOSHA.

1/2 Today, we were onsite at the construction of the new Lansing City Hall highlighting how workplace safety standards protect MI workers on #WorkersMemorialDay and every day. From construction sites to offices, safe workplaces are built through training and accountability.