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Automation and Robotics 1

Automation and robotics

Computers, control systems and IT have merged to handle industrial processes and machinery, replacing manual labor -- improving efficiency, speed, and performance. And, Macomb County's 30,000 jobs in robotics and automation are 294% above the national average.

Automation and Robotics 2

Macomb County’s manufacturing hub is home to an infrastructure that features technology, skilled trades, and manufacturing expertise.

That combination makes Macomb County a prime location for automation and robotics.

According to the Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP), Michigan has more robots deployed in manufacturing plants than any other state, comprising 12% of all robots in the United States. The DRP also reports the Detroit region is the No. 2 U.S. Metro for plastics manufacturing jobs, with a dedicated workforce of more than 31,000 people.

Why Macomb County?

  • More than 1,200 companies employ almost 121,000 skilled workers across science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
  • Macomb County's 30,000 jobs in Robotics and Automation is 294% above the national average.
  • We specialize in prototyping, design, and production.

Workforce snapshot

6.8% Projected job growth from 2018-2028
30,097 Jobs in 2018
29,694  Jobs in 2023
32,153 Projected jobs in 2028
793 Establishments

Important industry data

  • $4.7 billion GDP
Global experts in automated systems and robotic assembly lines
  • $7.95 billion in annual industry total sales
  • $6.6 billion in total export sales
  • 17% of in-region sales

Programs available for businesses

  • Michigan Economic Development Corporation -- financing through the MEDC, small to medium-sized businesses in Michigan utilize the its multiple capital access programs to maintain and grow their companies when private sector lenders need assistance in providing a loan
  • Industrial Facility Tax Exemption (PA 198) -- provides a tax incentive to manufacturers to enable renovation and expansion of aging facilities, assist in the building of new facilities, and to promote the establishment of high-tech facilities
  • Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! programs -- On-The-Job-Training program offers an incentive to employers for hiring eligible job seekers and providing them new skills training. OJT provides reimbursement to the employer; up to 50% of the new employee’s wages for a designated period. This reimbursement assists in covering some of the extraordinary costs of providing the training
  • Michigan Business Development Program (BDP) -- provides grants, loans and other economic assistance to businesses for highly competitive projects in Michigan that create jobs and/or provide investment and results in a net-positive return to Michigan
  • Michigan Manufacturing Technical Center I4.0 tech assessment -- helps identify technologies that can provide maximum improvements and return on investment
  • Michigan New Jobs Training Program (MNJTP) -- allows community colleges to provide free training for employers that are creating new jobs and/or expanding operations in Michigan.  The training for the newly hired workers is paid by capturing the state income tax associated with the new employees' wages
  • On-The-Job-Training Programs (OJT) -- to develop the career of the individual and the prosperous growth of the organization
  • Robotics training at Macomb Community College -- to learn how to create execute, test, modify and program robotic machines to prepare for Factory Automation Numerical Control (FANUC) certification.
  • Macomb Next Industry 4.0 project -- A Macomb County initiative that helps area companies gain a better understanding of how new technology can lead to greater efficiency and sustainability.

Industry partners

  • Macomb Community College - The mission of MCC is to transform lives and communities through the power of education, enrichment and economic development. The College's goal is to be a leader in higher education, improving society through innovative learning experiences that create pathways for personal advancement and drive economic vitality.
  • Michigan Economic Development Corporation - The MEDC, in collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies, and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has tools and resources to support businesses at any stage of growth.
  • Michigan Manufacturing Technical Center - The MMTC provides Michigan’s small- and medium-sized manufacturers with operational assessment, process improvement training, mentoring services, website technical assistance and market diversification tactics. It is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership providing access to industry-driven best processes and practices. 
  • Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! - The Michigan Works! Association provides services and support to Michigan’s workforce development system. Through the Association, members can access timely, relevant professional development opportunities and ensure high-quality programs for all customers. The Association believes the key to advancing prosperity across the state is a skilled workforce.
  • SCORE SE Michigan - SCORE SE Michigan and their volunteer business mentors are dedicated to providing the best possible service to help small business owners achieve their goals. Face-to-face or online, their mentors are able and willing to aid in the success of small businesses.
  • Small Business Development Center - The SBDC enhances Michigan’s economic well-being by providing counseling, training, and secondary market research for new ventures, existing small businesses and advanced technology companies. With offices statewide, the SBDC impacts the economy by strengthening existing companies, creating new jobs, retaining existing jobs, and assisting companies in defining their path to success.

Top local companies

  • Fori Automation
  • Kuka Robotics
  • Paslin
  • R & E Automated Systems
  • Waltonen Engineering

Contact us

To learn more about our free and confidential services.

Economic Developer Senior Curt Chowanic 

Curt.Chowanic@macombgov.org

586-469-6284 

linkedin.com/in/curt-chowanic-1b828618/