The Northwood Idea in Action: A Conversation with State Rep. Parker Fairbairn
As Michigan grapples with economic challenges and the nation celebrates 250 years of American independence, what will it take to strengthen free enterprise, encourage public service and create greater opportunities for future generations?
In this special faculty-alumnus interview, Dr. Brett M. Decker, Northwood University’s Endowed Chair of Leadership, sits down with state Rep. Parker Fairbairn (BBA ’21, MBA ’23) to explore those questions and more. Representing Michigan’s 107th House District, Fairbairn shares his perspective on the state’s economic future, the importance of citizen leadership and the challenges facing America. He also reflects on how The Northwood Idea — grounded in the importance of personal freedom, individual responsibility, limited government, moral law, earned success, and free enterprise — continues to shape his approach to public service.
Decker: I moved back to Michigan last year after 30 years on the coasts and overseas and have been taken aback by how diminished the state has become since I grew up here. For example, the Great Lakes State is now 40th nationally in per capita income (down from 18th in 2000), 45th for worst unemployment, 45th in high-tech job attraction, and 44th in fourth-grade student reading performance. What needs to be done to reverse such a downward trajectory?
Rep. Fairbairn: Michigan’s comeback starts with getting the basics right: students who can read, roads that work, reliable and affordable energy, and an economy where people can build a future. We need early literacy instruction that delivers results, career and technical education tied to good jobs, and fewer barriers to starting and growing a business. Instead of handing out subsidies to a select few, we should create a competitive tax and regulatory environment for everyone. That means measuring results, demanding accountability for taxpayer dollars, and making Michigan a place where our kids choose to stay, work, and raise families.
Decker: If you could wave a magic wand and institute a series of economic reforms, what would that agenda look like?
Rep. Fairbairn: My agenda would focus on three things: cutting waste, removing unnecessary regulations, and making Michigan a better place to build a business and raise a family. Many major reforms require federal action, but we can do plenty here at home. We should scrutinize every dollar in the state budget, demand measurable results, and eliminate programs that aren’t delivering. We also need to simplify permitting and remove costly requirements that hold businesses back. Taxpayer dollars should support essential services that work. The goal is simple: more good jobs, higher wages, and more opportunities for Michigan families.
Decker: One advantage of federalism is that many state and local offices provides opportunities for more citizens to serve in government beyond the federal level, though voters in this country commonly complain about the low quality of candidates. Why do you think that perception exists, and – on America’s 250th birthday – what can be done to attract more good people to serve our republic at all levels?
Rep. Fairbairn: That perception exists partly because people see political attacks more often than the everyday work of public service. That hostility can discourage good people from stepping forward. We should encourage citizens to start locally – on school boards, township boards, or appointed committees – where they can solve problems, work with neighbors, and make a difference. Those opportunities build experience and can lead to higher office. As America marks its 250th birthday, we should renew the idea that self-government depends on citizens willing to serve. Attracting good people starts with valuing service and treating those who step forward with respect.
Decker: What do you think is the most imminent threat facing America today, and what should be done to address the problem?
Rep. Fairbairn: I believe Communist China is the greatest threat to America’s security and economic independence. Here in Michigan, we should stop sending taxpayer subsidies to companies controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, protect sensitive land and infrastructure, and support American manufacturing. We also need to safeguard our universities and businesses against theft of American research and technology. A strong economy starts with policies that help our own workers and job providers succeed.
Decker: You have two degrees from Northwood University. How does The Northwood Idea inform your public service in the Michigan Legislature and how you look at the world?
Rep. Fairbairn: The Northwood Idea prepared me to serve as a legislator by teaching me the importance of individual responsibility, free enterprise, and limited government. Those principles continue to shape how I approach public service and the decisions I make in the Legislature. I believe government should create an environment where individuals, families, and businesses have the freedom and opportunity to succeed, rather than standing in their way. My time at Northwood taught me to look at challenges through that lens and to consider how government actions affect people in their everyday lives.
About the Authors
Dr. Brett M. Decker, the Endowed Chair of Leadership at Northwood University, is a New York Times bestselling author. He is a former editor and editorial page writer for The Wall Street Journal. Rep. Parker Fairbairn (R-Harbor Springs) represents the 107th District in the Michigan House of Representatives. He has a BBA and an MBA from Northwood University, and his dog is named Timber. This piece is featured in the October 2026 edition of When Free to Choose, Northwood’s signature publication dedicated to exploring the importance of free enterprise and other tenets of The Northwood Idea. Click here to receive When Free to Choose in your inbox!