The Michigan Infrastructure Council Sponsors Infrastructure Professionals for Cohort 10 of Asset Management Training

The Michigan Infrastructure Council (MIC) has opened applications for the 10th cohort of its successful Asset Management (AM) Champions program, a statewide initiative designed to equip Michigan's infrastructure leaders with tools and strategies to improve long-term decision-making, collaboration, and investment planning.

This state-sponsored, virtual training is free to participants and runs from August 11 to November 12, 2026. It is open to professionals in public and private sectors across all of Michigan's 83 counties. Participants, including local governments, utilities, engineers, public works leaders, and more, will learn how to assess their organization's asset management maturity using the Asset Management Readiness Scale (AMRS) and apply best practices that extend asset life, reduce costs, and improve quality of life in their community.

Graduates of the course join a network of more than 800 champions statewide, creating a growing coalition of infrastructure professionals who champion sustainable investment and collaboration across a variety of sectors. Upon completion, participants can also earn continuing education credits for drinking and wastewater operators, approved by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Professional Engineer (PE) credits are also available, making the program a valuable professional development opportunity in the infrastructure field.

"Asset management impacts every aspect of daily life, from delivering clean water to maintaining safe roads," said Ann Arbor City Planner Michelle Bennet. "The AM Champions program gave me the tools to connect infrastructure improvements with community goals. It's clear how vital this work is, and I'm proud that the City of Ann Arbor is on the right path."

In the Village of Cassopolis, a community full of promise and poised for growth, the AM Champions program has been an empowering source for Village leaders.

"Our public works superintendent had a vision for our community. He pushed us to better serve our residents and show them that change is possible. The first step in that journey was addressing infrastructure," said Clerk Tonia Betty. "All of us except for the treasurer are now AM Champions, giving us the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions. Having a united framework for alignment and knowing which parties to include helps us present a united front to our Village Council and to make change happen."

Applications for Cohort 10 are available online at https://www.michigan.gov/mic/education-training/am-champions and are due by Friday, July 31.

About the Michigan Infrastructure Council
The Michigan Infrastructure Council cultivates partnerships that strengthen the state's infrastructure systems and supports public and environmental health, economic prosperity, and quality of life.