Michael E. Ulch devoted more than thirty years to public service through parallel careers in the United States Marine Corps and the Michigan Department of Corrections. His life reflects a continued commitment to leadership, mentorship, and service to fellow veterans.

Ulch joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1994 and began his civilian career with the Michigan Department of Corrections in 1999. Rising through the enlisted ranks, he achieved the rank of First Sergeant and retired from the Marine Corps in 2020 after 26.5 years of service, including multiple combat deployments.

His military service included deployment as an Infantry Unit Leader during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, Operations Chief in western Iraq in 2006, and Battalion Operations Chief in Senegal, Africa, in 2012, in support of peacekeeping and security operations. He also participated in Joint Task Force missions supporting federal, state, and local law enforcement in counter-drug operations along the southern border of the United States.

Following his military retirement, Ulch continued serving veterans through his work with the Michigan Department of Corrections. As the Veteran Liaison Specialist, he serves as the department’s subject matter expert on veteran services, helping connect employees, families, and justice-involved veterans with resources, opportunities, and pathways to continued success.

A graduate of Michigan State University, Michael Ulch married his wife, Jamie, in 1997. They have three children: Hannah, Logan, and Nolan.