Celebrating Michigan workers, labor

Male and female worker analyzing pipes

Workforce helps safely energize region

Sept. 6, 2023

Teachers. Nurses. Engineers. They are part of the workforce that we honor on Labor Day.

Maybe we celebrated the day with a parade or cookout. It could have been through gardening or taking one last weekend trip before school is in full swing.

For more than 100 years, Labor Day celebrations have been as diverse as those who comprise today’s workforce.

Created in the late 19th century and marked the first Monday of every September, Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894. It remains a time to honor the U.S. labor force—past and present—recognizing their contributions across the country.

That includes the more than 11,000 workers who keep Enbridge’s energy network operating safely. They help power homes and businesses, provide heat, fuel transportation, and spur the manufacturing of thousands of products used every day—from school supplies to medical supplies.

“We understand that Michiganders rely on Enbridge Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac,” said Mike Moeller, director of Enbridge’s Great Lakes Region.

“It takes a team of dedicated, highly trained workers to help ensure Line 5 continues to meet the region’s energy demand—safely, reliably and efficiently.”

From welders to pipeline fitters to engineers and geologists, Enbridge employs approximately 120 people in Michigan alone. Enbridge employees and contractors are part of a growing workforce essential to North America’s energy infrastructure.

“It’s not only the energy from Line 5 that keeps us moving, but the people behind it,” said Moeller. The latter point is paramount as Enbridge continues with plans to construct the Great Lakes Tunnel.

Time to build the Great Lakes Tunnel

Placed deep below the lakebed, the Great Lakes Tunnel will house a replacement section of Line 5. The 21-foot-diameter tunnel will eliminate the chance of an anchor strike to it and reduce the chance of a release to near zero.

“We anticipate the Great Lakes Tunnel will be one of the largest infrastructure projects in northern Michigan,” said Moeller.

“A skilled workforce from a wide variety of sectors will be critical to bring the Great Lakes Tunnel to fruition. It really will be an engineering marvel for Michigan, and we look forward to partnering with Michigan workers who will make it a reality.”