As Michigan's clean energy industry expands, the state is helping workers with the transition

(Michigan Advance) As Michigan sets its sights on 100% clean energy sources, and automakers shift production away from gas-powered vehicles to electric models, a newly established office within the Department of Labor of Economic and Opportunity (LEO) is looking at efforts to help workers bridge the gap between jobs working with fossil fuels, to those working with renewables.

Created as part of the clean energy and climate package signed into law in November, the Community and Worker Economic Transition Office in hopes of facilitating a just transition by retaining and creating jobs in autos, manufacturing and energy.

While the office has not received state funding, it has leveraged federal funding and philanthropic investments to begin retooling manufacturers most impacted by a shift to renewables, support clean energy workforce training and diversify Michigan’s energy supply chain.

In conversations with stakeholders including labor groups, local government officials and business leaders, Jonathan Smith, LEO senior chief deputy director, said the most critical thing discussed was acting before an economic change occurs and brings about negative impacts. ................(more)

https://michiganadvance.com/2024/06/27/as-michigans-clean-energy-industry-expands-the-state-is-helping-workers-with-the-transition/