Innovation & Job News

Michigan's new economy grows, creates jobs, says Automation Alley report

Thursday, November 13, 2008

We've all heard the news from the auto industry, and most of it ain't good. However, some positive news is dribbling out about southeast Michigan's efforts to develop its new economy.

Automation Alley's Fourth Annual Technology Industry Report states that even while the auto industry retreats, Metro Detroit's new economy is moving forward at a rapid clip.

"In spite of the fact the entire automotive industry has declined, Southeast Michigan still has one of the highest concentration of technology jobs in America," said Ken Rogers, executive director of Automation Alley. "Our workforce makes us incredibly unique, and it will lead the region and state out of these difficult times. Talent, I believe, is the next economic development arena over infrastructure - and we've got the talent required to take the region into a new economy."

The numbers are encouraging. Employment in the life sciences sector grew by 13.2 percent between 2005 and 2006, while wages in that industry increased 4 percent to an average of $97,000. The overall technology sector grew 2 percent in the same timeframe.

Small businesses in southeast Michigan also received $38 million in research and development projects in 2006. Those 97 awards are up from the previous year. Student enrollment numbers in southeast Michigan were also up 335 students in graduate studies in science and engineering.

Source: Automation Alley
Writer: Jon Zemke