technology & engineering
About 2,300 miles northeast of Silicon Valley, the U.P. is building a similar reputation for technology — its growing STEM sector is often referred to as “Innovation Shore.” Computer technologists, scientists, and engineers looking for a lifestyle change will be pleasantly surprised by the number of world-class tech companies that call the U.P. home. Experienced computer programmers and engineers are in especially high demand.
With three SmartZones, and Lake Superior State, Michigan Tech, and Northern Michigan Universities in our backyard, the U.P. also offers strong entrepreneurial support and student talent. Technologies are born in classrooms here. Faculty move their ideas from labs to create high-tech businesses, generating demand for professional jobs in engineering and management.
university leadership in stem
Michigan Tech isn’t the only academic source of influence and inspiration. Both Northern Michigan and Lake Superior State universities are growing their STEM-related research opportunities and partnerships with industry.
The Upper Peninsula offers a strong eco-system for tech companies: business-friendly incentives, abundant excellence in R & D resources, a collaborative culture, a valuable talent pipeline, and an environment that values innovation and fresh ideas.
Close collaboration throughout the Upper Peninsula between government, the private sector, and academia has yielded a strong entrepreneurial environment with three tech-driven SmartZones and six business incubators that offer outstanding support in transforming ideas into businesses.
At the heart of a strong STEM community, is Michigan Technological University (MTU), an internationally noted, STEM-focused public research institution that provides a pipeline of fresh, young talent and leading-edge research. But Michigan Tech isn’t the only academic source of influence and inspiration. Both Northern Michigan and Lake Superior State universities are growing their STEM-related research opportunities and partnerships with industry.
Another high profile example of STEM collaboration is GreenForces, a coalition of Upper Peninsula tech companies that combine the agility of a small business with the wide-ranging experience of proven corporations. The coalition specializes in providing aviation and aerospace customers with high-tech solutions.
for stem business
STEM businesses are more in demand than ever before. From cleaner snowmobiles to satellite technology, we’re leading innovations that are already changing the world. Four universities, all of which offer STEM degrees, act as a feeder system for some of America’s most in-demand talent. Companies often leverage student talent on projects. Upper Peninsula companies have direct access to Michigan Tech — one of the nation’s leading research universities — and its professors, labs, students and programs. MTEC SmartZone is a business incubator with a strong track record of creating STEM jobs. They have support, consulting and access to funding. Michigan Tech and our business community is leveraging over $150 million to grow their capacity to design, develop and deliver human-centered innovations. This investment will spur new jobs, spin off companies and develop talent.
The U.P. is an ideal location for military, industrial, and commercial vehicle development and testing.
Keweenaw Research Center
Products developed in the U.P. can be found throughout the U.S., across the globe…and on the surface of Mars.
Orbion Space Technology
The U.P.’s outstanding universities provide a pipeline of creative STEM talent.
Businesses and entrepreneurs receive broad support from local SmartZones and business incubators.
MTEC SmartZone