Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the release of the Michigan Maritime Strategy, a 10-year plan aimed at promoting economic growth, creating jobs, and protecting the Great Lakes. The strategy marks the first time Michigan has developed a comprehensive plan for its maritime sector.
Governor Whitmer stated, “Michigan is prepared to lead the future of maritime innovation while protecting the waters that define us. The Michigan Maritime Strategy is a long-term plan for us to create good-paying local jobs and attract cutting-edge investments while protecting our Great Lakes, which contain 21% of the world’s fresh surface water. Because of our unique natural resources, we have an incredible opportunity to harness them to grow our economy and an awesome responsibility to safeguard them for future generations of Michiganders. With this new strategy, we will do both, ensuring our waters remain a source of pride and prosperity for generations to come.”
The initiative sets out six main goals: modernizing ports and infrastructure, expanding maritime manufacturing, accelerating clean vessel technologies, advancing workforce training in the sector, fostering innovation, and improving sustainability in recreation harbors and marinas.
Phil Roos, Director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), said: “The Michigan Maritime Strategy underscores our commitment to protecting the Great Lakes while driving sustainable economic growth. By reducing pollution and harmful emissions and investing in cleaner energy, modern infrastructure, and innovative ports and vessels, we can strengthen Michigan’s maritime sector and create good-paying jobs. Environmental stewardship and economic progress go hand in hand as we chart a course for the future.”
Scott Bowen from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) highlighted environmental concerns: “Our Great Lakes are Michigan’s greatest natural asset. The Michigan Maritime Strategy supports responsible maritime sector growth while safeguarding coastal habitats, fisheries, and recreational opportunities that sustain our communities, tourism economy, and quality of life.”
Susan Corbin from Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) emphasized workforce development: “Michigan’s Maritime Strategy is about preparing people for careers that power our economy, from port operations and marine manufacturing to emerging clean energy technologies. By aligning workforce training with industry needs, we’re opening pathways to good-paying, future-ready jobs for Michiganders.”
Tim Boring from Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) addressed supply chain improvements: “A strong maritime sector will move Michigan-grown products efficiently and reliably to markets at home and around the world. This strategy strengthens ports and supply chains that support farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities across the state.”
Bradley Wieferich from Transportation (MDOT) spoke on logistics: “The new strategy is key to modernizing ports, expanding markets, diversifying cargo, and improving supply chain resilience. It will ensure our marine highways remain efficient, reliable, and competitive while supporting economic development and global connectivity.”
Quentin Messer from Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) commented on sustainability efforts: “Michigan is a natural to lead the way in clean energy solutions for the maritime industry. The strategy charts a clear path toward sustainability and prosperity by advancing clean marine fuels, electrification, and innovative shipbuilding technologies.”
Thomas McKenney from University of Michigan noted broad collaboration: “With input from over 200 participants across the state…We took a holistic approach to maritime development beyond just shipping freight…We worked hard to align all of the state agencies involved…”
According to state data referenced in today’s announcement:
– Michigan ports provide about 17,000 jobs contributing $3.3 billion annually.
– Water-based tourism supports roughly 45,000 jobs with nearly $12 billion generated each year.
Development of this strategy was led by EGLE’s Office of the Great Lakes with assistance from several state agencies as well as academic partners including University of Michigan’s Department of Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering.
The draft version is available online at Michigan.gov/maritime. Public comments are invited through February 27 by email at belisles@michigan.gov.
