Why Michigan? Innovation Leaders Make the Case for the State’s Next Economic Chapter

• Innovation is no longer a specialty; it is becoming a core expectation in every industry and occupation. 
• As AI transforms the workplace, human skills such as communication and adaptability are becoming even more valuable. 
• Michigan has the talent, infrastructure, and innovative companies to compete, but stronger connections between education and employers will be the key to future success.

Michigan’s innovation economy is gaining momentum, fueled by advances in AI, life sciences, mobility, and entrepreneurship.  

During a panel discussion during the Detroit Regional Chamber’s TalentEd Industry Insights series, leaders from business, higher education, healthcare, and emerging technology explored how innovation is reshaping industries, redefining workforce needs, and creating new opportunities for talent across the state. The conversation, moderated by MichAuto’s Jennifer Orletski-Dehne, returned to a central theme: the future belongs to those who can combine technical knowledge, human skills, and a willingness to adapt. 

Innovation is No Longer Optional

Innovation in the workplace is becoming an expectation across all industries, not just technology-focused careers. Melissa Fugitt, Vice President of People Operations at BAMF Health explained that employers increasingly value curiosity and ability to embrace change, regardless of industry or job title.

“Innovation isn’t just an industry anymore. It is a necessity,” Fugitt said, reminding attendees that “wherever you go, whatever you do, you can be an innovator.”

She also highlighted Michigan’s growing opportunities in healthcare, life sciences, and technology, and encouraged stronger connections between students and employers. Rather than asking why graduates should stay in the state, Fugitt challenged attendees with a simple question: “Why not Michigan?”

Great Ideas Only Matter If They’re Applied

James McClearen, Chief Technology Officer of blueflite shared how blueflite has transformed innovative concepts into FAA-certified drone technology serving the healthcare sector. While innovation often starts with a great idea, he argued that success comes from execution and solving real-world problems.

“Innovation’s great, but the people who win are the people who can actually get it applied and make something real,” he said. He further emphasized the importance of embracing emerging technologies, warning that “if you don’t fully embrace AI, you’re going to get left behind.”

Beyond technology, McClearen stressed that meaningful work and employee ownership are powerful drivers of talent retention. He recalled one employee’s reflection that perfectly captured what many young workers value most: “I really like what I do and you pay me enough.”

Human Skills Remain the Ultimate Competitive Advantage

While technology is advancing rapidly, Lisa Katz, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Industry Relations at the University of Michigan Center for Innovation, said that innovation depends on people.

She emphasized the growing need for talent that can combine technical knowledge, business understanding, collaboration, and problem-solving. In today’s economy, innovation is no longer reserved for entrepreneurs or engineers. As Katz observed, “Who are innovators? In this day and age, we all have to be.”

Katz also noted that artificial intelligence is increasing the value of uniquely human skills like relationship-building, communication, and decision-making.

“AI reinforces the importance of those things that make us uniquely human,” she said. Ultimately, she argued that innovation should create more than jobs. It should create opportunities that improve quality of life and help families thrive.