New Department Focuses On Developing State Talent

Governor Rick Snyder says Monday’s launch of the Michigan Department of Talent and Economic Development demonstrates that Michigan is taking the lead in closing the talent gap by preparing residents for the highly skilled, technical jobs of today and tomorrow.

Snyder created the new state department through an executive order in December. The department is led by Steve Arwood, who is also the CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

The governor says it will accelerate the state’s effort to become a national leader in connecting highly skilled talent with in-demand jobs.

The Department of Talent and Economic Development consists of the MEDC, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, the Michigan Strategic Fund and the newly created Talent Investment Agency.

The new department brings together about 1,600 employees with combined budgets from all sources of about $1.1 billion.