Return to in-person work closely tied to expected in-person K-12 instruction
DETROIT, Mich. – Business Leaders for Michigan released today the latest survey of its board, showing 89 percent of CEOs representing Michigan’s largest employers anticipate the U.S. economy will maintain or grow over the next six to 12 months, with 85 percent saying the same of Michigan’s economic picture.
Employment expectations remained robust quarter-over-quarter, with 99 percent of executives surveyed planning to maintain or expand their Michigan workforce. Yet, more than three-quarters of Michigan’s largest employers anticipate a shortage of available talent in the next six to 12 months, even after extended federal unemployment benefits end in September.
States around the country are experiencing similar talent shortages, and 78 percent of Michigan business leaders surveyed expect to have trouble filling positions.
“With talent shortages threatening our recovery and future competitiveness, Michigan can’t afford not to make big investments expanding the talent pipeline,” said Jeff Donofrio, President and CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan. “The Governor and Legislature have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to leverage large investments of federal funding and state surpluses to give us the tools to close the talent gap now and in the future.
“American Rescue Plan dollars can greatly expand opportunities for Michigan workers seeking to finish their college degree or start a new technical or skills program. We can also double down on increasing the number of Michiganders that complete training programs, chose to stay after graduation and move back to Michigan from out of state.”
The survey also showed the post-pandemic workforce is taking shape more steadily, as 46 percent of Michigan’s largest companies have their workforce back this summer for some level of in-person work. In addition, 40 percent are looking at a return to in-person work post-Labor Day for at least part of the week, as in-person classroom instruction brings flexibility for parents.
With the Delta variant causing concern, large employers are focused on ensuring their workforce is protected, with 70 percent saying they’re still requiring unvaccinated individuals to wear masks in the workplace, even as requirements have been eliminated.
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About Business Leaders for Michigan:
Business Leaders for Michigan, the state’s business roundtable, is dedicated to making Michigan a “Top Ten” state for jobs, personal income and a healthy economy. The organization is composed exclusively of the executive leaders of Michigan’s largest companies and universities. Our members drive nearly forty percent of the state’s economy, generate over $1 trillion in annual revenue and serve nearly half of all Michigan public university students. Find out more at www.businessleadersformichigan.com.