To lead in the 21st century, Michigan residents, communities, and businesses must be ready to solve future challenges and compete in a global economy. This starts with talent. Employers across Michigan have jobs they want to fill—but the skills applicants have, and the skills employers want don’t line up. This mismatch makes it harder for businesses to hire, grow, and locate in Michigan and for residents to secure good paying jobs. That’s why, in 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer established an ambitious goal for Michigan—to increase the number of working-age adults with an occupational certificate or degree to 60% by 2030. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is leading the state’s attainment strategy. Everyone in Michigan has a right to an educational path to success—regardless of age, income, race/ethnicity, or where they live. That’s why the state’s strategy includes outreach to youth, adults, and immigrants in every community and intentional partnerships with the institutions that serve them.