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Michigan Business Leaders Cautiously Navigate Economic Uncertainty

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 19:28 GMT by inforum
      Locales: Connecticut, UNITED STATES

Detroit, MI - February 6th, 2026 - Michigan business leaders are cautiously navigating a landscape of economic uncertainty, stemming from the reverberations of the 2024 election and looking ahead to sustained challenges in trade, workforce development, and infrastructure. These concerns were the focal point of a recent Inforum event, bringing together prominent figures from across the state's diverse economic sectors to discuss the path forward.

The discussion revealed a broad consensus: while Michigan's economy remains resilient, several key factors threaten to dampen growth if left unaddressed. A primary worry centers around the potential for escalating trade tensions. Several panelists expressed anxieties regarding the possibility of increased tariffs and the erection of new trade barriers, a concern fueled by rhetoric during the 2024 campaign. These measures, they argued, could severely disrupt established supply chains and negatively impact the state's vital international trade relationships, particularly with Canada and Mexico. Michigan, heavily reliant on the automotive industry and advanced manufacturing, is particularly vulnerable to trade disruptions.

"We've seen firsthand how tariffs can significantly increase costs for businesses and ultimately harm consumers," stated Sarah Chen, CEO of a major automotive supplier, during the Inforum event. "Predictability in trade policy is crucial for long-term investment and planning. Sudden changes create instability and discourage expansion." The implementation of new tariffs, even if targeted, could trigger retaliatory measures from other nations, further compounding the problem and potentially leading to a trade war. Businesses are already factoring this risk into their financial projections, and many are delaying investment decisions until greater clarity emerges.

Beyond trade, the ongoing skills gap continues to plague Michigan businesses. Finding qualified workers remains a persistent and debilitating challenge. Panelists repeatedly emphasized that despite significant investment in automation and technology, a skilled workforce is still paramount. The demand for skilled tradespeople, engineers, technicians, and data scientists far outstrips the current supply. The issue isn't solely about a lack of overall workforce participation; it's about a disconnect between the skills employers need and the skills available in the labor pool.

Several proposals were put forth to address this challenge, including expanding vocational training programs in high schools, increasing funding for community college apprenticeships, and fostering stronger partnerships between businesses and educational institutions. A key point raised was the need to move beyond traditional four-year college degrees and recognize the value of alternative pathways to skilled careers. "We need to redefine what success looks like and create more opportunities for people to learn valuable skills without incurring massive student debt," remarked David Miller, president of a leading manufacturing firm.

Infrastructure investment was also identified as a critical component of future economic success. Leaders highlighted the urgent need to modernize Michigan's transportation infrastructure - roads, bridges, and railways - to facilitate the efficient movement of goods and people. The discussion also emphasized the crucial role of expanding broadband access, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Reliable, high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses to compete in the digital economy and for residents to access essential services. The recently allocated federal infrastructure funds are a welcome start, but panelists stressed that sustained investment will be required to address the state's significant infrastructure needs.

The overarching theme of the Inforum event was the need for bipartisan collaboration. Panelists repeatedly emphasized that tackling these complex economic challenges requires a cooperative approach, transcending partisan divides. They acknowledged that the 2024 election created a period of uncertainty, but urged lawmakers to prioritize economic stability and work together to create a favorable business climate.

"Michigan's economic future isn't tied to any one political party," stated Elizabeth Carter, a prominent entrepreneur and investor. "It's tied to our ability to attract investment, develop a skilled workforce, and build a strong infrastructure. That requires collaboration and a long-term vision. We need policies that promote growth and innovation, regardless of who is in power." The call for unity underscores a growing recognition that Michigan's economic prosperity depends on creating a stable and predictable environment for businesses to thrive, attracting talent, and fostering innovation. The hope is that policymakers will heed this call and prioritize economic collaboration in the years ahead.