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Michigan’s $4M drone initiative promises high-tech jobs, local manufacturing, and a national role in aerospace innovation.
Whitmer Administration Unveils Statewide Drone Strategy Backed by Bipartisan Support
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed Executive Directive 2025-4, launching the Michigan Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Initiative, a sweeping, statewide strategy to develop the next generation of uncrewed aircraft systems—commonly known as drones. The program aims to make Michigan a national hub for design, production, and deployment of these technologies, with over $4 million in funding already committed.
State Rep. Ron Robinson (R-Utica) praised the initiative, calling it “a major win for Southeast Michigan,” citing its potential to create high-paying, high-tech jobs and modernize domestic supply chains. “We’re creating high-skilled jobs, advancing U.S. manufacturing, and bolstering our leadership in a fast-growing industry,” Robinson said in a press release statement Monday.
Drone Technology Set to Transform Logistics, Defense, and Health Care in Michigan
The initiative outlines a clear roadmap for integrating drones into sectors ranging from emergency response and healthcare logistics to infrastructure inspection and military applications. Under the directive, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan Aeronautics Commission will expand infrastructure for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, allowing drones to operate over long distances without direct visual oversight.
The strategy also includes plans for the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME) to coordinate with key agencies, including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), and Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). These agencies will support drone testing at commercial and defense sites, promote workforce training, and incentivize Michigan-based manufacturing.
New Jobs and Skilled Training Programs Tied to Advanced Air Mobility Growth
A key element of the directive focuses on workforce development. Michigan universities, community colleges, and vocational institutions are expected to roll out new certifications tailored to drone and AAM-related fields. “This initiative will launch careers and ensure that the next generation of American-made aerospace innovation is built right here in Michigan,” Robinson said.
The plan also calls on the LEO to help existing manufacturers transition to AAM production, aligning Michigan’s industrial legacy with the state’s technology-forward vision.
Public Trust and Rural Benefits Take Center Stage in Deployment Strategy
To ensure broad public acceptance, the directive mandates state-led education and outreach programs. These campaigns aim to demystify drone technology and highlight its benefits, especially in rural and underserved communities, where drone applications could improve access to health care or emergency services.
The state also plans to pilot drone use in its own operations to demonstrate efficacy and safety, and to prioritize procurement of Michigan-built AAM solutions.
Michigan Positions Itself for Federal and Private Sector Investment
The directive emphasizes aligning state resources to seek external funding, including federal grants and private sector investments. The Make it in Michigan Competitiveness Fund will play a strategic role in attracting OEMs and parts suppliers with long-term job creation potential.
This initiative comes as U.S. aerospace companies are under pressure to reduce reliance on foreign-made components and scale up domestic production. “Too often, we’ve outsourced critical technology,” Robinson said. “But this time, Michigan is stepping up and building it here.”
Oversight and Transparency to Guide Statewide Rollout of Drone Technologies
Under the directive, OFME will oversee the execution and monitor performance metrics. Annual reports on implementation are due starting December 31, 2025, and will be publicly posted to ensure transparency and accountability.
Executive Directive 2025-4 is now in effect, and appointments of AAM leads within each participating department are expected in the coming weeks.
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