Michiganders encouraged to explore pathways during Career Exploration and Awareness Month

Pathfinder career exploration tool prepares job seekers for bright futures in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. — To spotlight the state’s growing need for talent and the programs and services in place to support residents in employment, training and educational opportunities, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to encourage Michiganders to explore the many career pathways available to them during April’s celebration of Career Exploration and Awareness Month.

“Michigan offers endless opportunities for career-growth, with countless good-paying jobs across diverse, exciting industries,” said Governor Whitmer. “During Career Exploration and Awareness Month, I encourage every Michigander to take advantage of state resources like Michigan Reconnect, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, and the Community College Guarantee, which lower the cost of college and skills training and help more young people get the skills they need for good-paying jobs. Whether you’re a student planning your future, re-entering the workforce, or transitioning to a new profession, let’s work together to help everyone ‘make it’ in Michigan.”

LEO is celebrating Career Exploration and Awareness Month this April by promoting programs and resources that connect Michiganders with rewarding career opportunities. Throughout the month, LEO will highlight initiatives designed to help individuals explore in-demand industries, develop new skills and access the support they need to succeed in today’s evolving job market.

"At LEO, we're helping Michiganders build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in today’s job market," said LEO Director Susan Corbin. "By expanding access to high-quality training and career development opportunities, we’re opening doors to good-paying, in-demand jobs. When people succeed, our communities and economy grow stronger – and we’re here to support every step of the journey."

LEO is driving creative and effective solutions for Michigan’s workforce, serving more workforce participants than any other state in the Midwest. The state ranks #1 in the Midwest for serving workforce participants, #1 in the nation for adult credential attainment, #2 in the nation for helping adults gain employment and #4 nationally for the number of active registered apprentices. These rankings highlight Michigan’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality training programs and career resources that provide help to both job seekers and employers.

To learn more about in-demand careers and education needed to land these jobs, Michiganders are encouraged to check out Pathfinder, LEO’s career exploration tool. This free online resource helps users create an individualized career roadmap and provides information to students of all ages, parents, school staff and career counselors to make informed choices about educational and career options.

“Michigan’s future relies on a workforce equipped with the skills to thrive in today’s economy,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, director of LEO’s Office of Employment and Training. “By ensuring Michiganders have access to the information, resources and opportunities they need to pursue rewarding careers in today’s high-demand, high-wage industries, we empower individuals to take control of their professional journeys while strengthening the state’s long-term economic competitiveness.”

There are a variety of valuable resources to help Michiganders follow career and labor trends. These include Michigan’s Hot 50 Job Outlook report, which showcases the top in-demand, high-wage occupations expected to see significant growth through 2032; Michigan’s Career Outlook report, which provides multiple lists of in-demand occupations by education and training requirements; and Regional Career Outlook reports, which provide a breakdown of career outlook data in each of the state’s 10 regions. 

Individuals who are currently seeking job opportunities should visit Pure Michigan Talent Connect, where they can find nearly 90,000 active openings.

Career Exploration and Awareness Month also supports the Michigan Statewide Workforce Plan, which aims to build upon the state’s existing successes in workforce development by providing clear, shared strategies to create jobs and support workers and employers. View the full Statewide Workforce Plan on the Michigan Workforce Development Board web page.

Visit Michigan.gov/AllAccess to learn more about supports available to connect Michiganders and businesses with the opportunities and unique resources they need to build a better future.

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