From small manufacturing businesses to large production plants, Wisconsin’s best-in-class manufacturing companies employ nearly half a million Wisconsin workers and generate roughly $66 billion in economic output.   

During this year’s State of the State Address, I declared 2024 the Year of the Worker in Wisconsin because it’s well past time we got to work addressing our state’s longstanding workforce challenges—including our need to recruit and retain talented workers. 

Throughout my time in office, I’ve been glad to support programs and initiatives like our Workforce Innovation Grant Program, designed to help individuals gain the skills, education, and training to pursue successful, family-supporting careers in industries like manufacturing.    

And over the last couple years, we’ve announced new occupational pathways through our state’s Youth Apprenticeship program—including new opportunities in manufacturing—and we’re very proud to celebrate record-high participation in both our Youth and Registered Apprenticeship programs for the second year in a row.   

So, as we celebrate Manufacturing Month and our state’s proud manufacturing history, I look forward to continuing our support for this critical industry and the workers who power it.  

Happy Manufacturing Month, Wisconsin!   

Thank you, and take care.