FLINT, Mich. – In a forward-focused address delivered at Kettering University’s GM Mobility Research Center, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer outlined a bold, attainable vision for Michigan’s economic future — anchored in advanced manufacturing, semiconductor leadership, and deep collaboration between education, government, and industry.
Surrounded by University leadership, economic development partners, and civic leadership, Gov. Whitmer made a clear case for investment in the infrastructure and talent Michigan needs to lead in next-generation technologies. The audience also included representatives from the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance as well as robotic manufacturer FANUC and power source creator Shaltz Automation, which provided the equipment showcased alongside Whitmer. Her visit to Kettering marked the latest in a series of stops, including the White House, aimed at setting the course for long-term economic growth.
“Michigan is well-positioned to lead this race, but we need to use every resource we have in order to win the race. It’s just common sense,” Whitmer said. “Let’s make it easier to build here in Michigan — whether that’s housing or roads or schools or factories.”
Whitmer emphasized the state’s opportunity to secure a semiconductor fabrication facility, or “fab,” in the near future, calling the project a “once-in-a-century investment” that would position Michigan as a global manufacturing hub. She noted that most permanent jobs inside fabs don’t require a four-year degree, highlighting programs like Kettering’s new Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices* as essential in meeting workforce demand.
“A fab is really an intergenerational project, where a dad can work on pouring the foundation, a daughter can help wire it up to the grid, and the grandchild can work inside, ultimately making the advanced chips our world needs,” said Whitmer.
Kettering President Dr. Robert K. McMahan welcomed the governor and affirmed the University’s ongoing commitment to preparing the highly skilled talent Michigan’s future economy will require.
“At Kettering, we believe in partnership, real working partnership, the kind that moves ideas from vision to impact,” McMahan said. “Governor, your focus on innovation and opportunity is deeply aligned with our purpose as a university. Your leadership is helping to shape a future where Michigan doesn’t just compete — it leads.”
Dr. McMahan also shared updates on the University’s strategic focus areas, including advanced mobility, new energy vehicles, intelligent manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, and noted more than $1.5 million in recent funding secured to advance research in semiconductors, hydrogen, and enhanced manufacturing. He also highlighted Kettering’s new Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices*, a rigorous condensed program that aims to meet the state’s advancing technology workforce needs quickly.
“Progress happens when public leadership and mission-driven institutions pull in the same direction,” McMahan said.
Whitmer concluded her remarks with a challenge — and a call to action.
“We can do big, challenging things, because that’s who we are,” she said. “Let’s compete. Let’s win. And let’s build Michigan’s future together.”
*An application for this new program has been submitted to the accreditor and is pending HLC approval
