Manufacturing jobs have been on the decline in Michigan since the 1970's and recently, the state has went through some serious economic changes which will challenge Michigan's future leaders.
Economist Charles Ballard says, "I think for the incoming governor I 'm looking for three qualities from the Wizard of Oz. That person needs to have a heart, a brain and courage and courage may be the most important thing of all because the issues are tough."

Economists from across the state are work-shopping how Michigan can turn things around. Mark Skidmore says, "I think the number one thing to realize is while policy and leadership is important, we have just experienced a structural change in our economy." The most important thing that needs to change is the way Michigan does property taxes and sales and taxes on services.

Wayne State University Professor Emeritus Gary Sands says, "We need to look at more flexible, more responsible property tax system, I think that extending the sales tax to services is, should be seriously considered and I think there are options." Also, there has been talk of diversifying the economy with green jobs. But, there are other areas to focus on. Skidmore says, "IT, in Bio-Economy and health services and other areas and technical training as well."

Ballard says, "Alternative energy is a part of it, high-tech manufacturing, tourism I think is a part of it. Next, economists say cuts in education funding are a bad idea, since innovation, which leads to new products and services often starts with education. Ballard says, "The kind of cuts that we've been making are a mistake. The higher education budget has been slashed, the K-12 budget has been down 15 to 20 percent after adjusting for inflation."

On the upside, Skidmore says nationwide, things are turning around. Although Michigan still needs to change its funding structure regardless.