March 19, 2026
In a recent Crain’s Grand Rapids Business commentary, Andy Richards, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Battle Creek–based Duncan Aviation, underscored the growing child care crisis affecting Michigan’s workforce and economy.
Richards pointed to research from Pulse, which found that southwest Michigan currently has enough licensed child care capacity to serve only about half of children ages 0–5. This shortage leaves many working families unable to find affordable care and creates ripple effects for employers, including absenteeism and reduced productivity. The article emphasizes that child care providers are operating on razor-thin margins while facing rising costs, staffing shortages, and increasing regulatory demands. At the same time, families are struggling to afford care, even as providers cannot sustainably lower prices.
By highlighting Pulse’s data, the commentary reinforces the need for increased investment in child care supply and affordability. Strengthening support for child care businesses and early educators, Richards argues, will help ensure that families can work, businesses can thrive, and communities can grow.