Strayland Heights and Warren partner to boost Macomb County's defense industry

The Sterling Heights City Council convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss a significant partnership with the City of Warren aimed at bolstering economic development in the defense and military sectors within Macomb County. This collaboration is driven by the presence of key military facilities, TACOM and GVSC, which play a crucial role in the local and state economies.

The defense industry in Macomb County is a powerhouse, generating over $60 billion in contracts, with more than 60% of Michigan's defense contracts awarded to local companies. In 2023 alone, 4,800 defense contracts were issued, contributing $3.56 billion to the region's economy. Major contractors such as BAE Systems and General Dynamics are central to this thriving sector, which also supports a robust supply chain.

The proposed partnership will involve a mutual cost-sharing agreement between Sterling Heights and Warren to hire consultants who specialize in defense industry research and development. An Executive Committee comprising members from both cities will oversee the initiative, ensuring transparency and effective management over a three-year term, with options for renewal based on performance.

Key objectives of the partnership include conducting comprehensive research to identify regional strengths and workforce gaps, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, which is critical for the defense sector. The initiative aims to engage various stakeholders, including economic development agencies and educational institutions, to align efforts and avoid duplication of services.

Additionally, the partnership seeks to enhance workforce development by promoting career opportunities in engineering and defense-related fields, advocating for the industry at federal and state levels, and marketing the region's capabilities to attract more defense companies.

As the meeting concluded, the council expressed optimism about the potential for job creation and increased investment in the local defense industry, positioning Macomb County as a competitive player in the national defense landscape.