LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Here's a look at the latest business headlines across the Lansing area.
Niowave grows Lansing footprint with new airport facility
Niowave Inc. plans a $65 million expansion at Capital Region International Airport, a project expected to create 70 high-wage jobs and strengthen the Lansing region's role in medical technology and advanced manufacturing.
The company, founded in 2005, designs and manufactures superconducting electron accelerators and related systems for medical, defense and industrial markets. The new facility will expand production capacity for superconducting components used in medical isotope production, clean energy research and national security applications.
Niowave CEO Mike Zamiara said the project will support patients, jobs and local talent pipelines.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026, with the site fully operational by fall 2027.
Report shows AI job demand rising across industries in Michigan
Michigan officials and business leaders say demand for artificial intelligence skills is rising across nearly every region and industry in the state, citing a new Lightcast report that underscores the need for broader workforce training.
The report found national demand for AI jobs grew 120% from 2023 to 2025, while Michigan's Capital region rose 138%. About 10% of Michigan workers are in jobs with high AI exposure, particularly office and administrative roles.
“The new data shows that most jobs are expected to evolve, not disappear, which makes training our workforce and ensuring adaptability essential to future success,†said Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Susan Corbin.
Small businesses are seeing some of the fastest growth in demand for AI skills, especially in agriculture, construction, energy, hospitality, outdoor recreation and mobility.
State grant advances Clinton County development site
The Bingham Township Interchange Site has received Bronze certification through the Michigan Economic Development Corp.'s MI Sites program, a step aimed at making the Clinton County property more competitive for industrial investment.
The Lansing Economic Area Partnership, working with Bingham Township, also secured $808,500 in Michigan Ready Sites grant funding from MEDC to advance infrastructure planning at the site.
“This Bronze designation and grant award are another example of LEAP and MEDC's ongoing commitment to preparing industrial sites across our region so we can compete for the businesses and jobs that will define our economic future,†said Bob Trezise, LEAP president and CEO.
“We are excited to take this important step toward activating the Bingham Township Interchange Site as a future hub for industrial investment and jobs in our region,†said John Weber, Bingham Township supervisor.
The funding will support preliminary engineering for traffic, water and sewer infrastructure and a conceptual site plan.
WILX/WSYM-TV combine operations, expand local news and advertising reach
Gray Media Lansing combined operations of WILX-TV 10 and WSYM-TV FOX 47 on May 15, bringing together two major news operations in the Lansing-Jackson market. The company said the move will strengthen local news, weather, sports and community outreach across mid-Michigan.
The combined operation will be led by Debbie Petersmark, general manager of WILX since 2018. Petersmark has worked at WILX for 25 years and is an East Lansing native.
Gray Media Lansing said the acquisition also will expand options for local advertisers through broader broadcast and digital marketing opportunities.
The company also plans to expand its studios on American Road in south Lansing. READ MORE
Michigan lawmakers launch bipartisan caucus to strengthen expand apprenticeships, trades education
State lawmakers have formed the Michigan Building Trades Caucus, a bipartisan group aimed at strengthening the state's skilled trades workforce and expanding career opportunities for young people.
The caucus will bring lawmakers and industry leaders together to focus on trades education, apprenticeship programs and workforce shortages affecting housing and infrastructure projects statewide.
“Skilled trades are the backbone of Michigan's economy and our communities,†State Rep. Ron Robinson, R-Utica, said. “This caucus is about bringing people together to support commonsense policies, expand opportunities for workers, and make sure the next generation has a clear path to good-paying, in-demand careers.â€
Eaton RESA's Sara Jobson honored for career education work
Eaton Regional Education Service Agency Career Pathway Specialist Sara Jobson has received state and regional recognition for her work expanding career exploration for students across Eaton County.
Jobson was named the Association for Career and Technical Education Region 1 Counseling and Career Development Professional of the Year. She also received the Michigan Association for Career and Technical Education Counseling and Career Development Professional of the Year award earlier this year.
Jobson has worked in public education for more than 23 years, focusing on school counseling and career development. In her current role, she has helped build a K-12 career exploration system that gives students access to career awareness, exploration and preparation.
“This award is a wonderful recognition of the incredible work Sara has done to build and grow a truly comprehensive K-12 career exploration system for our students here in Eaton County,†said Eaton RESA Superintendent Dr. Sean Williams. “We are thrilled she is being recognized for her commitment, creativity and programs, all of which have helped students explore opportunities and widen their view of what success looks like for their future.â€
Jobson will be honored at the National ACTE Conference in December 2026.
Mackinac Island, Frankenmuth leaders tapped for travel commission roles
The Michigan Travel Commission has named Liz Ware of Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island as chair and Jamie Furbush of the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau as vice chair.
The 13-member commission is appointed by the governor and works with Travel Michigan to promote and grow the state's tourism and travel industry.
“Travel moves Michigan's economy, and we will look forward to continuing our partnership with Liz, Jamie, and the Travel Commission as we move forward with the Michigan Tourism Industry Master Plan,†said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan.
Apple Vacations bringing Cancun, Punta Cana and Los Cabos flights back to Capital Region International Airport
Apple Vacations will bring back its international nonstop vacation flights from Capital Region International Airport for the 2027 winter and spring travel season.
Service from Lansing to Cancun, Mexico; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; and Los Cabos, Mexico begin Jan. 24, 2027 and run through April 11, 2027.
“By providing direct access to premier destinations like Cancun, Punta Cana and Los Cabos, we eliminate the hassle of layovers, giving travelers more time on the beach and a seamless, stress-free path to paradise,†said Dan Schultz, vice president of Global Airline Relations, ALG Vacations.
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