May 2023 | Top Stories:
Economic Outlook Data Recap | Project Diamond Phase 2 Launch | Holly Oaks ORV Park Open House Industry Day | INTEGR8 Conference | Main Event Awards Celebration | Trails Talk | Planners Gathering: Accessory Dwelling Units | SMART Transit Community Sessions | Michigan Works! Association Impact Awards | Oakland County Parks Vouchers for Military | Upcoming Veterans Resource Fairs | Promote Your Veteran-Owned Business Workshop | Vendor Spotlight: Oakland Community Health Network
A Message From Sean Carlson
Oakland County Deputy Executive
Dear Colleagues,
I hope you were able to attend the 38th Annual Oakland County Economic Outlook Luncheon on May 8 at Oakland University. I think I speak for everyone when I say I was proud to hear the University of Michigan economists state that Oakland County's economy has a "solidly positive outlook" over the next few years. Here at Oakland County's Economic Development Department we are committed to doing our part in making that projection a reality.
One way we are securing this positive outlook is through higher education, as presented in our Oakland80 report, a new addition at this year's Economic Outlook Luncheon. This report gives recommendations on how to accelerate post-secondary attainment, which in turn promotes employment, better wages and quality of life for the residents in Oakland County.
We also took part in and hosted three events to promote new opportunities for Oakland County businesses. At Automation Alley’s INTEGR8 Conference, we discussed Project DIAMOnD’s successes and future for our manufacturing companies. Then, on May 11, we introduced our local business, government, and military leaders to the Holly Oaks ORV Park’s potential for testing and R&D capabilities, especially for those interested into expanding into the defense, mobility and tech industries. Finally, we held a press conference on May 24 to announce the Phase 2 of Project Diamond. Phase 2 will provide funding for more than 250 Oakland County manufacturers to join Project DIAMOnD’s 3D printing network.
We can’t do this alone, and that’s why we want to celebrate our partners’ successes and accomplishments. With that said I hope you were able to attend the Main Event, a celebration for our Oakland County Main Street communities that work so hard in their cities, villages and townships, which increase Oakland County’s overall quality of life. Congratulations to Main Street Oakland County and the Planning and Local Business Development Division for putting on this successful event.
Last, but certainly not least, I wish to take a moment to remember the men and women who gave their lives in the service of our country. On this upcoming Memorial Day and throughout the year, let us never forget the cost of freedom. And to my fellow Oakland County veterans, I hope you will take advantage of the offerings, events and resources that our Oakland County Veterans’ Services Department has to offer. Thank you for all you have done for your country.
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Oakland County Economic Outlook Recap
Data Corner: Economic Outlook Report Highlights
On May 8, the University of Michigan’s Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics released the 38th annual Economic Outlook report for Oakland County. Working together and guided by data from sources such as the annual Economic Outlook study, Oakland County helps thousands of residents and businesses with critical resources.
Below are a few highlights from this year’s 2023 - 2025 Economic Outlook. Please visit AdvantageOakland.com for the full report and presentation.
Oakland County Economic Outlook, 2023 - 2025:
3.0% – As of February 2022, the county’s seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.0%, down dramatically from the pandemic high of 19.7% reached in May 2020
22,100 – The amount of labor force participants in Oakland County is below its pre-pandemic levels; Oakland County’s labor force is forecast to grow 0.7% over the next three years
1.4% – Forecasted job growth in Oakland County for 2023, followed by an additional 1.4% in 2024 and 1.2% in 2025
$69,300 – Forecast of inflation-adjusted average annual real wage in Oakland County by 2025, compared to $61,800 across the entire state of Michigan
15.0 million units – The forecasted light vehicle sales in the U.S. in 2023 (16.0 million in 2024 and 16.4 million in 2025); 6.1 million units in 2025 are forecast to come from the Detroit Three automakers
Quarterly Payroll Employment Indices, Michigan and Oakland County
 Average Real Wage in Oakland County by Selected Industry Group
Interactive resources and related information:
Sources: Oakland County Economic Outlook, 2023 - 2025
Business: 38th Economic Outlook Luncheon
The 2023-2025 Economic Outlook Report made its debut at the luncheon hosted by Oakland County Executive David Coulter at Oakland University on May 8. This is the county's must-attend event for business, education and community leaders. Experts from the University of Michigan’s Research Seminar in Quantitative Economics presented highlights from their three-year forecast of the county's economic future.
Take a look at video highlights here: https://tinyurl.com/mtnyk88e
New this year was a panel discussion focusing on trends and initiatives that support Oakland County's skilled and educated workforce and how that contributes to the region's thriving and inclusive economy. The Oakland80 program shared their report and findings as well.
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Workforce: Oakland80 Report Sheds Light on Educational Attainment and Resident, County Prosperity
Oakland County Workforce Development leaders detailed the connection between increasing the percentage of residents who earn a post-secondary degree or skills certificate and increased wages and job opportunities, as well as the overall economic forecast for the county, at this year’s Economic Outlook Luncheon, held earlier this month.
One of the most notable findings of the Oakland80 Report, administered by the Corporation for a Skilled Workforce (CSW), is that county residents with a post-secondary education have median wages that are $36,000 higher per year than those without a college degree or training ($25,748 vs. $61,796).
The report also noted that Oakland County residents with a post-secondary education are employed and participate in the labor force at a higher rate than those who do not (82% vs 70%). This also has a direct impact on the overall economic health of the county.
During the Economic Outlook Luncheon, Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said the county is well on-track to achieving its ambitious Oakland80 goal of 80 percent of eligible residents having a post-secondary degree or skills certificate by 2030.
“I’m very pleased to report that we’ve made great strides in achieving our goal in just two years, with 69 percent of eligible residents having reached this milestone,” Coulter said. “This effort is so important to attract employers to Oakland County, knowing that they’ll find a skilled workforce here, and provide our residents with good paying jobs that will boost their quality of life.”
Coulter attributed the initiative’s early success to collaboration of businesses, nonprofits, post-secondary institutions, K-12 school districts, skilled trades and other local, state and regional partners who have a vested interest in the educational success of Oakland County’s and Michigan’s residents.
He said the launch of a team of Career and Education Navigators was particularly helpful. The team of eight people are embedded throughout Oakland County to help adults build pathways to educational success and achieve their career dreams, while meeting the talent needs of local employers.
Students also have access to Oakland80 Supportive Services to help cover the cost of books, transportation and childcare, which can be barriers to completing post-secondary education. In addition, the Oakland80 Tuition Scholarship Program has provided more than 381 people with financial support to complete degree and skills certificate programs.
The Oakland80 report did identify a number of challenges the county faces to reach its goal. There are significant differences in educational attainment and employment in some communities, especially those with underserved populations or in rural areas. Even in Oakland County’s more affluent and educated communities, there are significant differences in educational attainment by race and gender.
“This report will be very valuable as we move forward to address the needs of residents in specific Oakland County communities who want to earn degree and skills certificates, but face barriers to success that we can help eliminate,” said Oakland80 Administrator Rana Al-Igoe. “I’m excited to lead the team as we look at each challenge and what needs to be done over the next couple of years.”
The Oakland80 report’s findings have enabled the team to refine its strategies to best address the challenges:
Strategy 1: Accelerate Exposure to Career Exploration
Strategy 2: Support Transitions from High School to Post-Secondary Education
Strategy 3: Optimize Adult Financial Aid Usage
Strategy 4: Attract & Retain Students and Talent
Strategy 5: Close Equity Gaps that Exist in Education & Employment
The full Oakland80 report, “Expanding Post-Secondary Attainment, The Road to Economic Success in Oakland County”, can be accessed HERE.
If you are interested in joining the Oakland80 initiative, please contact Rana Al-Igoe, Oakland80 Administrator, at Oakland80@OakGov.com.
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 Business
Oakland County awards $15M for 3D printers for Small Businesses through Project DIAMOnD Phase 2 - the World's Largest 3D Printing Network
Project DIAMOnD, an Oakland County initiative powered by Automation Alley, stands for Digital, Agile, Manufacturing on Demand. Born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, embracing Industry 4.0 theories, put into practice for 2,600+ Oakland County manufacturers when supply chain was disrupted, providing a sustainable platform to innovate using 3D printers. Phase 1 transformed the additive manufacturing ecosystem by building up our local manufacturing base to cultivate parts on demand for customers. This additional funding will get even more 3D printers in the hands of our local small- and medium-sized manufacturers.
The press conference was held at Unique Short Tree in Rochester Hills, a women-owned small business led by Tammy Packard, a phase 1 awardee of Project DIAMOnD who used the 3D printers to create parts & bypass supply chain issues caused by the pandemic. She describes this technology as a “savior for her business”. Also joining us at the launch of phase 2 was Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter, Oakland County Deputy Director over Economic Development Sean Carlson, Automation Alley COO and Project DIAMOnD CEO Pavan Muzumdar, as well as Joe Anderson, President of TAG Smart Manufacturing who will be involved with phase 2 with opportunities to tap into both commercial markets and within the federal government. Thank you to Dave Woodward, Chairman of Oakland County Board of Commissioners and the entire BOC for your support and vision of Project DIAMoND.
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RECAP: Holly Oaks ORV Park Open House Industry Day on May 11
The 200+ acres of Holly Oaks ORV Park is a great asset to have here in our backyard in Holly, Michigan. The Economic Development team, along with leaders in local businesses, government, and the military shared an afternoon of adventure as they explored the capabilities of the park.
This Oakland County Park has testing and R&D capabilities available with different terrains to meet the needs of your organization. The park is open for public or private business use.
Learn more at: https://tinyurl.com/7csctvy2
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 Automation Alley’s INTEGR8 Conference: Exhibit & Panel Discussion
Oakland County Economic Development attended INTEGR8, presented by Automation Alley. We exhibited in the Project DIAMOnD expo area, and focused on highlighting and promoting the Project DIAMOnD Network. There was also a panel discussion, which included Oakland County Deputy Executive Sean Carlson, along with Pavan Muzumdar, COO of Automation Alley, and it was moderated by Dom Holmes, Manager of Economic Development Initiatives for Oakland County. It was focused on the success of Project DIAMOnD and the future of the network as they strengthen the supply chain here in Oakland County.
Learn more at: ProjectDiamond.org
 Community
 Spirit of Main Street Award Winner - Ortonville
Ortonville Captures Top Honors at Main Event Awards Celebration
Downtown Ortonville captured the “Spirit of Main Street” award as eight downtowns were honored during Main Street Oakland County’s Main Event gala celebration at the Flagstar Strand Theatre in Pontiac. They received a $2,000 cash award from Genisys Credit Union for their heartwarming video, “The Faces and Places of Ortonville—Celebrating 175 Years.” The video features the community’s preservation of its historic buildings and natural beauty, past and current small businesses, and the many faces of Ortonville through time.
For the first time, all awards and winners included a cash prize:
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Main Street Innovation ($1,000): Downtown Ortonville, Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Program
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Power in Our Places ($1,000 each): Downtown Ferndale, The Dot Mixed Use Parking & Streetscape Project; and Downtown Oxford, Art & Mural Program
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Campaign for Main Street ($1,000): Downtown Farmington, Dinan Park Patronicity Campaign
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Transforming The Economy ($1,000): Downtown Farmington, GLP’s Farmington State Bank Transformation
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Doing Business on Main Street ($1,000): Downtown Oxford, Façade & Signage Grant Program
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Sustainable Main Street ($1,000): Downtown Lake Orion, Small Changes Create a Legacy for the Future
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Program on the Rise ($500): Downtown South Lyon, South Lyon Rising
Nearly 150 people attended the Main Event on “May the Fourth be With You.” With the theme, “A Force for Excellence,” the event recognized community leaders, businesses, and volunteers—many sporting a fun Star Wars flair—for their efforts to preserve and energize their historic downtowns and commercial corridors.
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Photo: Power in Our Places Winner – Downtown Oxford
The awards judging panel was comprised of experts in historic preservation and economic development, including Elizabeth Chase, executive director, Nebraska Main Street Network; Theresa Doan, manager of corporate social responsibility, Genisys Credit Union; Laura Krizov, manager, Michigan Main Street; Lisa Mullins-Thompson, senior program officer for revitalization services, Main Street America; Greg Phillips, director, Main Street Arkansas; Amelia Ritter, content producer, Visit Detroit; Ray Scriber, director, Louisiana Main Street; Jackie Swihart, program officer for revitalization services, Main Street America; Dana Walker, director, Michigan Downtown Association; and Matt Wiederhold, executive director, Heritage Ohio.
The event’s sponsors included Genisys Credit Union, SMART, Dobrusin Strategic Intellectual Property Law, Giffels Webster, and the Michigan Downtown Association.
Click here to see Downtown Ortonville’s winning video.
NOTE: Nominated videos could not be contracted or professionally produced. They were “homegrown” and imparted the spirit and story of the district. "
TRAILS TALK: News and History
When the 2.5-mile asphalt shared-use path from Old Plank Road to Wixom Road was completed, there was cause for celebration. It was a milestone, marking a 10+ year commitment by Oakland County’s Planning Division, the Trail Councils, and its funding partners, including the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Milford Township, and the City of Wixom.
The ribbon cutting fittingly took place in Downtown Wixom on April 22 with Oakland County Executive David Coulter marking the special occasion as a part of the county’s Earth Day and Celebrate Trails Day festivities.
This completed $3 million project also includes the installation of pedestrian activated traffic control devices, an at-grade railroad crossing, and other site amenities. Trail users now have an improved route to access state and regional parks, traditional downtowns and major commercial areas.
Regional trail connections have now increased. The Huron Valley Trail (HVT) has direct connections to the north with the Milford Trail and existing trails to the west in Island Lake State Recreation Area and Kensington Metropark. The Michigan Air Line Trail (MALT) links to the south with the M-5 and I-275 Metro Trails (with connections to Lake Erie Metropark) and to the east with the West Bloomfield and Clinton River Trails (with connections to Macomb County and beyond).
“Oakland County’s economic development staff have been instrumental in writing the grants and working with the Trail Councils to help get this project completed,” says Bret Rasegan, manager, Oakland County Planning and Local Business Development Division. “The local tourism impacts alone could spur further trail-related development and enhance ‘Trail Town’ economic vitality for downtowns and communities on or near the trail network.”
Phase One of the trail development, between Wixom Road and Haggerty Road, was completed in 2020.
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June Planners Gathering Focuses on Accessory Dwelling Units—Not Just for Granny Any More
On June 14 (10-11 AM), the Oakland County Planning, Zoning and Land Use Unit’s next free and virtual Planners Gathering will focus on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as being a possible, affordable and logical option to meet the demand for additional housing in urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Often referred to generically as “Granny Flats,” they can provide a broader housing design and market alternative. What has been the municipal experience with ADUs in Michigan? Shawn Winter, planning director, Traverse City; and Chris Cheng, AICP, city planner, City of Ann Arbor, will join us to share their successes and challenges with ADUs.
Registration is required for Zoom link at AdvantageOakland.Eventbrite.com
This session will be recorded and available at AdvantageOakland.com. If you have any questions, contact Jim Schafer, Oakland County at schaferj@oakgov.com or
(248) 285-2321.
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 Transit
SMART Hosted a Community Engagement Session and Three Public Hearings this Month
SMART held a virtual community engagement session and three in-person public hearings at locations accessible by fixed route transit. These sessions included a presentation on the proposed route extensions to currently unserved areas of Oakland County, and an opportunity for attendees to provide feedback to SMART about the proposed route extensions.
The presentation can also be viewed at any time here: youtu.be/7WDYb9-9b9o
To provide your feedback, you can comment here: smartbus.custhelp.com/app/ask
Look forward to the Oakland County Transit expanded services that are in progress:
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Extended hours of service (OPC hours extended in April and WOTA hours extended in June)
- Cost per trip adjusted to be consistent at $2 for all riders on NOTA, OPC, and WOTA
- Plans are underway to extend service areas into nearby communities by WOTA and NOTA
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 Workforce
Oakland County Michigan Works! Client Receives Prestigious Impact Award
Barron Industries of Oxford, in recognition of its commitment to workforce development and collaborative relationship with Oakland County Michigan Works!, recently received a prestigious Impact Award from the Michigan Works! Association.
Over the past six years, Barron has partnered with the Michigan Works! office in Waterford to launch a number of programs to train new and existing employees.
The family-owned, global manufacturer began working with Oakland County Michigan Works! in 2018, when the company needed assistance in filling several skilled trade positions and launched a successful on-the-job (OJT) training program.
In 2021, Barron joined the Oakland County Business Resource Network, which provides employees with a success coach to help them overcome a variety of challenges, from transportation issues to dependent care, which can act as barriers to long-term employment.
Last year, Barron further strengthened its partnership with Oakland County Michigan Works! by launching a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship program for CNC machinists.
“We’re honored to receive a Michigan Works! Association Impact Award,” said Lissa Barron, communications director, Barron Industries. “Oakland County Michigan Works! provides support for several programs that provide certifications for incumbent employees including machining, quality testing, welding and more. Many of our employees who start in entry-level machine operator positions are able to quickly progress into higher-paying skilled roles.”
In addition, over the past two years the company has participated in the State of Michigan Going PRO Talent Fund, working closely with Oakland County Michigan Works! to complete the application process and coordinate training.
In 2022, Barron received a grant of $68,599 to upskill and retrain 20 current staff members, and hire and train 12 new people. This year, the company was awarded a $69,365 training grant from the Michigan Going PRO Fund. In addition, Barron was recently awarded a Regional Talent Innovation Grant in the amount of $10,750 to train eight employees.
“It has been a pleasure working with Barron Industries over the past six years to help them launch several programs that contribute to building a highly skilled workforce,” said Jennifer Llewellyn, director, Oakland County Michigan Works! “Conversely, our working relationship has helped people find and retain high-quality employment. We look forward to working together for many years to come.”
Combined, the six Oakland County Michigan Works! centers assist more than 3,000 employers annually. This includes providing help with talent recruitment, apprenticeship programs, job fairs, candidate pre-screening, hiring and training support, layoff support and labor market data.
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 Veterans
Oakland County Parks is Offering a Promotional Voucher for Military Appreciation Month
In observance of Military Appreciation Month in May, Oakland County Parks is recognizing individuals who have served or are currently serving in the military with a promotional voucher for one of the following:
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One free night at a campsite
- One free waterpark admission
- One free entry Holly Oaks ORV Park
This offer is only valid for Oakland County residents. Vouchers expire Dec. 31, 2023. Vouchers must be claimed in person at Addison Oaks, Groveland Oaks, Independence Oaks, Orion Oaks, Lyon Oaks, Red Oaks, the Recreation Programs and Services Office at Waterford Oaks and Waterford Oaks Waterpark starting in mid-June. Oakland County Parks also offers a golf discount and free annual vehicle permit (valid through 2029) to active military or veterans.
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Join Us at our Upcoming Oakland County Veterans Resource Fairs
June 29, 2023 | 9:00 AM – Noon
Executive Office Building - Conference Center | 2100 Pontiac Lake Road 41W Waterford, MI 48328
Register at: eventbrite.com/e/oakland-county-veterans-resource-fair-tickets-487087029417
July 13, 2023 | 9:00 AM – Noon
Holly Area Veterans Resource Center | 300 East Street | Holly, MI 48442
Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/oakland-county-veterans-resource-fair-tickets-621044068527
All Veterans and their families are welcome to learn more about available benefits, including: housing counseling, career planning, training programs, boxes of food, information on community resources and more. LED light bulb kits will also be available at the June and July Resource Fairs curtesy of SEEL, LLC and DTE.
Upcoming Veteran Business Workshop: How to Promote Your Veteran-Owned Business
June 22 | 10 AM - 1 PM
Veterans, are you looking to grow your business? Attend this workshop to learn how to promote your business on social media and how to work with the news media.
Promote Your Business Through Social Media
Identify how social media can meet your business goals through connecting with your customers and creating brand awareness. Whether you are just beginning or looking to increase your social media presence, this training will provide key takeaways to promote your business and increase your viewability in the public eye.
Working with Media: Tips and Techniques
Positive media coverage provides valuable exposure and credibility to your small business and the products and services you offer. But how do you go about landing a story in your local newspaper, TV news or online? Learn how to work with journalists, pitch a great story, secure their interest and generate a buzz through media that drives customers to your doors
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Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) leads a provider service network that assists approximately 27,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 300 service sites across the county.
People who receive public mental health services through OCHN's provider network include those who have a(n):
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Intellectual or developmental disability
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Mental health challenge
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Substance use disorder
OCHN's Veteran's Navigator program assists Oakland County Veterans and their family members by helping them navigate state, federal, and community resources such as mental health, substance use, disabilities, support groups, housing, employment, transportation, and various other resources.
OCHN's goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation.
Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can call 988 (24 hours / 7 days) or OCHN’s non-emergency behavioral health access department at (248) 464-6363, Monday through Friday from 8 AM - 8 PM.
For more information, please visit: oaklandchn.org
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