Wisconsin Manufacturing Jobs Offer Good Paying, Rewarding Careers for Next Generation of Skilled Workers

According to a recent survey, while the majority of Americans believe overwhelmingly in the importance of manufacturing, just one in three parents would actually encourage their children to pursue a career in the skilled trades.

In Wisconsin and Illinois, the Stateline Manufacturing Alliance (SMA) is working hard to change that.

How?

By putting to rest the perception of an unfulfilling, factory floor job that offers low pay and little chance of advancement. 

Manufacturing 2.0: Shedding the Factory Floor Image

Manufacturing is the backbone of the Wisconsin economy, contributing a whopping $73.7 billion to the state’s GDP. Over 8,800 manufacturing companies employ over 480,000 talented workers, with Wisconsin ranking second in the nation for manufacturing employment.

Our manufacturers don’t just make things; they make them right. Bringing generations of skill, know-how, and the latest in innovative technology to a global market.

But in a hyper digital age, how can we engage with a generation that’s been raised as digital natives? What can we do to pique their interest in learning a skilled trade and joining our manufacturing workforce?

“The perception of manufacturing often doesn’t match today’s reality. Modern manufacturing is driven by technology, innovation, and problem-solving. It’s no longer about repetitive, low-skill tasks on a factory floor,” said Colleen Koerth, Manager of Workforce Development for Blackhawk Technical College, one of the founding members of the SMA. “Today’s manufacturing careers require a highly skilled workforce.”

“I suspect that a lot of parents don’t realize the amount of technology related jobs there are in manufacturing. Thirty years ago, there were more manual assembly jobs in the manufacturing process. Today, with automation, there are more technical jobs supporting the manufacturing process,” added Shawn Sullivan, President of The Morse Group and SMA co-chair along with  Kelly Crosby of Scot Forge.

Senior Engineers, Tooling Specialists, CNC Machinists, Research Scientists, Process Technologists, Global Microbiology Lead. There are currently over 100 openings on the SMA job board, many of which require specialized training or an advanced degree. None of them scream “dead end” factory job.

“These are dynamic, well-paying careers with room for advancement and continued learning. In manufacturing today, the possibilities are truly limitless,” said Koerth. 

Shifting Perceptions About Careers in Manufacturing

SMA is supported by what it calls an “eclectic” group of stakeholders that run the gamut from industry big shots like Frito Lay to local, specialized manufacturers including STE and Scot Forge.

Over 50 organizations across South Central Wisconsin and Northern Illinois are currently engaged in the SMA. All actively working to pique the interest of both youths and adults who are toying with the idea of a career in manufacturing.

“If you’re seeking a hands-on career that offers strong earning potential, take the time to explore all the opportunities available in the skilled trades. Many employers will even help fund your education while paying you to gain real-world experience on the job. Skilled trades careers offer a combination of learning, earning, and advancement that can lead to long-term success, making them an excellent option to consider,” said Koerth. 

A Career They Didn’t Know Existed

Closing the gap left by retirees to ensure Wisconsin manufacturers have a pipeline of skilled workers is at the core of SMA’s mission.

“We are often helping kids that are not interested in pursuing a four-year degree find a career path. Students are excited to learn about rewarding careers that they didn’t know existed,” said Sullivan.

And the gratitude doesn’t stop there.

“The feedback from the parents is appreciation for helping their kids find a path,” said Sullivan.

One of the SMA hallmarks is its “learning by doing” approach, which in turn drives its success.

“The feedback we’ve received can be summed up in one word: appreciation. One of SMA’s key focus areas is building a strong talent pipeline, and participants consistently express gratitude for the opportunities to explore manufacturing careers in a hands-on, engaging way,” said Koerth. “Through initiatives such as summer camps, job shadows, plant tours, and internships, students, parents, and adult learners gain valuable insight into the exciting and rewarding careers available in modern manufacturing. These experiences help shift perceptions and spark genuine interest in pursuing manufacturing as a career path.”

Whatever Career You Choose, Do It With Purpose

Choosing a career path is tough to do at any age, especially in a world that is wide open with possibilities. Should I pursue a four year degree? Learn a skilled trade?

“Whatever you do, do it with purpose. Don’t just go to college so you can say you have a four-year degree. If you want to be a teacher, engineer, doctor, lawyer, etc., that is great and you should go to college. If you are not sure, explore the trades and or associate programs related to construction, manufacturing, and automation,” said Sullivan.