Michigan Talent Architecture

The shortage of qualified talent in Michigan should concern all of us. It poses a real threat to the economic growth and prosperity of our state.

That’s why we created the Michigan Talent Architecture Coalition (MTAC), a group of more than 100 leaders from over 60 industry, government, education, economic development, labor and non-governmental organizations.

Learn more about the initiative below.
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The Michigan Talent Architecture

The coalition’s goal is to create an effective, easy to use system that will help solve our state’s talent shortage.

There are many programs and organizations at local and regional levels working together to address talent challenges. This coalition provides strategies that embraces this and tools that help Michigan communities address the talent needs of local businesses.
Aligning Talent Demand and Supply

Talent Pipeline Management Academy: Training a network of professionals in a proven methodology that enables a business to clearly identify and signal their talent needs to their preferred training providers. We’re working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Center for Education and Workforce to launch the first academy in Michigan in October 2017.

These leaders from around the state were selected for the first Academy. These trained professionals will help:

  • Make Michigan the top business destination in the country.
  • Provide a talent pipeline for Consumers Energy and our customers.
  • Develop and retain hometown talent.
What Employers Are Looking For

Soft skills credentials: Too often job candidates lack the basics. Some call them “soft skills.” Some call them “work ethic.” No matter what you call them, employers all agree – it’s hard to find people who have these essential skills.

The coalition has been looking closely at this issue. Like most things in talent development, it’s not simple. We started by defining it.

While soft skills are difficult to define, most employers agree on nine core employability skills:

  • Problem Solving: Applies critical thinking skills to solve problems by generating, evaluating and implementing effective solutions.
  • Critical Thinking: Uses logical thought processes to properly define challenges or problems, gather and interpret evidence and draw reasoned conclusions.
  • Collaboration: Works effectively together to accomplish goals. Demonstrates respect of cultural and individual values. Listens to and considers ideas from others.
  • Communication: Connects and engages with others orally, nonverbally or in writing using the appropriate communication vehicle and timing. Actively listens, contributes and considers differing perspectives.
  • Adaptability: Adjusts to new, different or changing requirements with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
  • Technology Literacy: Effectively uses digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop PCs and related software to convey and retrieve information.
  • Customer Focus: Actively seeks to meet and exceed customer/client expectations or needs at all times.
  • Integrity: Treats others with honesty, fairness and respect. Works effectively with people of diverse backgrounds. Exercises personal ethics, follows rules and laws, and understands personal and legal responsibility.
  • Positive Personal Brand: Displays responsible behaviors at school and work. Maintains a professional demeanor and positive reputation. Is reliable, trustworthy and productive.

In the future, we will be providing the guidelines for nurturing these important employability skills to schools, universities and other training programs. Students would earn the highest level of the credential only after they complete work experience, and an employer validates their skills.

This will be a powerful credential that demonstrates that Michigan workers have the skills employers value most.
Career Choices and Our Future Workforce

MI Bright Future: Data shows Michigan students are unaware of the career opportunities available to them in their local communities. That’s why we’re supporting the launch of a new web tool, MI Bright Future, statewide.

MI Bright Future is a career development tool providing direct links between students and employers.

Students connect with Michigan companies, like Consumers Energy, to learn about local careers, job shadowing and internship opportunities. All so they can connect with real skills and get real experience right in their community.

More Information

To learn more about the Michigan Talent Architecture, the Talent Pipeline Management Academy, the new soft skills credential or MI Bright Future contact Sharon Miller.

Economic Development

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