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May 31, 2024

Bi-Weekly Executive Newsletter

Dear Friends, 

When a powerful idea blossoms into reality, perhaps the greatest compliment is when that concept is replicated on a greater scale.

That’s what happened this week when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced that Project DIAMOnD, a venture started nearly four years ago as a partnership between Oakland County and Automation Alley, will scale up in Wayne and Macomb counties with a goal of statewide expansion.

Project DIAMOnD helps supply 3D printers and training to small manufacturers and the announcement Thursday at the Mackinac Policy Conference served to underscore what Oakland County realized at the beginning of the pandemic – that advanced manufacturing could help lead the economic comeback locally and across the state.

With an initial investment of $10 million in federal pandemic relief funding, Oakland County delivered 250 3D printers to companies, helping them dramatically cut production time and costs, and keep the manufacturing of parts right here in Michigan. The project helps our companies avoid unpredictable supply chain delays and compete more effectively in a global marketplace.

We’ve gone even further, pumping in $15 million more into Project DIAMOnD with a goal of providing the resources for 3D printers to 40 percent of our manufacturers.

Gov. Whitmer’s vision to use this tool to build the “Infrastructure for Innovation” across Michigan will certainly solidify the state’s leadership role in attracting the companies and workforce that will power the manufacturing economy of the future.

This isn’t just about 3D printers, though. It’s about the creative innovations that companies are producing that will have profound impacts for people.

Take Adapt Technology of Auburn Hills. It used a 3D printer from Oakland County to develop a device that allows hospitals to insert feeding tubes in babies in the neonatal ICU. The device is easier to use and protects the baby’s delicate skin.

Or consider Geofabrica, a parts manufacturer in Auburn Hills that worked with the Army Corps of Engineers to use a 3D printer to make the parts for easily assembled structures in the field.

This announcement on Mackinac Island this week is really exciting news and another outstanding example of what can happen when regional and state leaders work together with a common goal in mind: using advanced technology to build and grow our economy.

With gratitude,

Dave Coulter
Oakland County Executive

Oakland County’s 40 Under 40 Award Class of 2024 Reception

Some of the best and brightest young professionals who live or work in Oakland County came together last week to receive their Oakland Together 40 Under 40 awards at a reception at the Iroquois Club in Bloomfield Township. These individuals exemplify Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter’s vision for a community working together to leverage its strengths, address its challenges, and find value in working with regional partners.

The remarkable professionals in the 2024 class range from teachers to mental health professionals, physicians, non-profit leaders, university professors, lawyers, diversity consultants, and automotive supplier employees.

“This diverse group of young leaders embodies the spirit of innovation, resilience, and community engagement. Their contributions are shaping the future of our region, and I am proud to celebrate their accomplishments and commitment to making a positive difference in our county," said Executive Dave Coulter

Oakland County Rises from Silver to Gold in Environmental Leadership

Oakland County has risen from silver to gold certification for its environmental leadership from the statewide Michigan Green Communities (MGC) program.

“Through innovative initiatives like Oakland SAVES and our concerted efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, Oakland County is moving toward a greener, more sustainable future,” County Executive Dave Coulter said.

As part of the annual MGC Challenge, local governments can win bronze, silver, gold or platinum seals of achievement in areas such as energy efficiency, climate adaptation and resilience, recycling, and environmental justice. At the 2023 MGC Challenge, seven communities received bronze certification, 20 received silver certification, and 36 received gold certification.

Three M Tool & Machine Honored for Developing Youth Talent

Three M Tool & Machine in Commerce Township and employee Alex van den Bremer were recently honored with an Impact Award in recognition of the employer’s commitment to workforce development and its collaborative relationship with Oakland County Michigan Works!

The Impact Award Program, sponsored by the Michigan Works! Association, honors businesses, individuals, and Michigan Works! frontline staff across the state who work to transform lives and contribute to a strong economy.

“Oakland County Michigan Works! builds strong ties with companies like Three M Tool & Machine, collaborating to provide valuable training to new and existing employees,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “Three M Tool & Machine’s development of youthful talent is helping to strengthen Oakland County’s skilled workforce.”