Workforce Maintenance Biggest Concern at Macomb County Economic Forecast

During the Macomb Community College's 2024 Macomb Economic Forecast, presenters emphasized the economic future for the county is reliant upon the development of a diversified workforce that can fill new jobs in manufacturing as well as technical and professional services. Last year, manufacturing companies in the county listed supply chain as their largest industry concern, but recruiting and retaining talent topped the list for 2024.

Partner Tom Alongi, National Automotive Practice Leader, said, “We would like to see more of a public-private relationship with colleges because the skills that are needed are changing. The skills of tomorrow will be very different from the skills of today and that is what will create a bigger generational gap.”

The recent expansion of trade school programs at MCC is essential to creating a workforce prepared for jobs of the future, according to Alongi. “We have great schools in Macomb County and I think we have a great opportunity to see more collaboration between industry and the schools,” he said. “We are trying to fill that skills gap.”

Additionally, the continued development of EV technology is leaving a resounding impact on the Macomb County economy. The key, Alongi said, will be the diversification and evolution of manufacturers to achieve success in the changing landscape and support the continued economic health of the county. “When I look at the technology that is coming, we will have a 700- or 800-mile battery and we will be able to recharge in less than 10 minutes and it will be game changing,” said Alongi. “We are not quite there yet, but technology is coming because when it comes to EV it is not if, it is when. We see a lot of opportunities in the automotive industry.”

The economy is still shaking off the last of the COVID pandemic effects in 2024, especially as inflation rates continue spiking the cost of goods and services across the board. However, the time since 2020 has lent itself to a continued recovery effort. “You can say 2024 is a return to normality,” said Alongi. “It is about getting as lean and profitable as possible so that whatever happens in 2025 and beyond, we are ready.”

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