Ford continues to uphold its legacy as a premier American automaker. Recognized worldwide, Ford is immensely proud to equip drivers with exceptional vehicles while maintaining a strong commitment to American employment. At the recent Michigan event, “ACCELERATE the Essential Economy,” Ford executives outlined the current economic challenges in the United States and the company's strategies for navigating them.
What is “ACCELERATE the Essential Economy”?
“ACCELERATE the Essential Economy” is a vital summit that brings policymakers, educators, business executives, and skilled laborers together to tackle economic issues. The second annual event was held in September 2026 at the revitalized Michigan Central Station. The location was incredibly fitting for the actionable plans developed there. Restored by the dedication of 3,000 skilled workers, Michigan Central Station now operates as a collaborative hub for developing cross-sector solutions to the country's skilled-trades gap.
Ford stood alongside prominent partners at this year's conference, including The Home Depot, The Wallace Foundation, and Dycom. Together, this coalition is funding a 2027 nationwide public education campaign to attract young American workers to the skilled trades. Backed by Ad Council research, the initiative notes that while 38 percent of students express interest in trade careers, only 11 percent actually plan to pursue one. The campaign is determined to eliminate the major barriers posed by lingering stigma and limited industry awareness.
Ford's Action Plan
Ford and its coalition partners have structured a comprehensive approach to help young professionals explore the trades and achieve career success. As a starting point, Ford Philanthropy is expanding its transportation and mobility support nationwide, ensuring that commuting issues do not stifle career growth. Additionally, Ford Pro is launching Ford Pro Advantage—a first-of-its-kind certified pre-owned program for Class 1-7 commercial vehicles across its network of over 700 Commercial Vehicle Centers, easing the path to ownership for business owners. Finally, alongside the rollout of the Michigan Launchpad for Industrial Innovation & Transformation (Michigan LIFT), Ford Philanthropy and JPMorganChase granted $550,000 to Focus: HOPE, a Detroit-based organization specializing in job training.
Contact us at Surprise Ford today to learn more.