A new report from West Michigan Works! points to continued strong demand for talent across West Michigan — reinforcing what many Chamber members are already experiencing.
Seven key industry clusters lead demand:
- Agribusiness
- Construction & energy
- Health sciences
- Hospitality
- Information technology
- Manufacturing
- Professional & administrative services
Notably: Less than half of the listed roles require a four-year degree. Many can be accessed through certifications, technical training, or apprenticeships.
Where demand is strongest
Examples of high-need roles include:
- Construction managers
- HR specialists
- Project management specialists
- Marketing & market research professionals
- Healthcare administrators and clinical roles
- Information systems managers
The trend: West Michigan needs both skilled trades and high-skill professional talent.
Why it matters
For employers:
- Competitive hiring will continue
- Workforce pipelines and retention strategies are critical
- Partnerships with education and workforce agencies matter more than ever.
For job seekers:
- There are strong career pathways without a traditional four-year degree
- Many of these roles offer competitive wages and long-term stability
At the Grand Rapids Chamber, we’ll continue working alongside employers, workforce partners, and education institutions to strengthen talent pipelines and support a vibrant regional economy.
To learn more about our talent pipeline work, please contact Jamell Hatchett at jamell@grandrapids.org.