I always love getting the chance to talk one-on-one with the people across Michigan.  This week, I had the opportunity to speak with several different community members in Battle Creek and Lansing about my comprehensive economic plan to create jobs today and jobs tomorrow.  While I continue to urge our leaders in Washington to take a look at the international trade policies that are hurting us most, today was another clear reminder of the realities that many of our Michigan workers, families, parents, and business owners face. 

In a town like Battle Creek, it's easy to see the positive impact of our economic plan.  I had the chance to talk with an official from Duncan Aviation – a company that chose to stay and expand here, creating hundreds of new jobs.  Jim Hettinger, with Battle Creek Unlimited, was also on hand.  Thanks to Jim’s hard work recruiting international investment in his community and our efforts overseas, there are more than 90 companies at work in their economic park, many of them from Southeast Asia and Europe.  During my two trips to Japan, I’ve had the chance to work with Denso, Tokai Rika and II Stanley – all three companies are expanding in Battle Creek.

In Battle Creek, I also found hope for another reason.  After the meeting, a woman who worked at the facility where we were approached me.  Fifteen years ago, she had been laid off from her job.  She knew then what so many others are discovering now – she needed to go back to school to get training for a new career.  Although this meant becoming college classmates with her own children, she went back to school and earned a college degree.  She said it was the best thing she ever did for herself, and I was so proud to hear of her great accomplishments.  This is what Michigan is made of -- hardworking people doing whatever it takes to achieve a good life for themselves and for their families.

In Lansing, I spoke with an education leader from Dearborn who made the trek all the way to the capital city to let me know that our new rigorous curriculum for our high schools is a good first step to help his students prepare for college and beyond.  He spoke passionately about the need to create relevant high schools that challenge and engage kids in hands-on learning.  I also talked with students who are eager to start a career and a family and enjoy a quality life in the Great Lakes state after graduation.  They were enthusiastic about my New Merit Award scholarship which would give them $4,000 to attend any college in Michigan.

I am always proud of this state and our amazing citizens when I visit local communities.  I’m thankful for the opportunity to sit down with people who are working hard to continue the good life in Michigan.  They inspire me to keep working hard.  Every day, I am fighting for our Michigan jobs and Michigan workers, going anywhere and doing anything to bring jobs to our great state. Stay tuned…