Madison Reporter

Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) is marking October as Manufacturing Month, with the first Friday of the month designated as Manufacturing Day. The organization, which serves as both the state chamber and manufacturers’ association, is highlighting the role of manufacturing in Wisconsin’s economy throughout the month.

Manufacturing remains a leading industry in Wisconsin, contributing more than $73.7 billion to the state’s economy. According to WMC, over 9,000 manufacturers operate in Wisconsin and employ about one in six workers across the state, offering nearly half a million jobs that require advanced skills.

“Wisconsin is a state that makes things,” said WMC President & CEO Kurt Bauer. “Our manufacturers not only drive Wisconsin’s economy, they produce valuable and necessary products, contribute to their local communities, provide fantastic careers, and much more.”

To commemorate Manufacturing Month, WMC has released its 2025 Made in Wisconsin Poster. This educational resource features 51 products made across different regions of Wisconsin. The poster has been distributed to lawmakers, chambers of commerce, education partners and other stakeholders.

In partnership with Baker Tilly and Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, WMC has also opened nominations for its annual Manufacturer of the Year awards program at www.wimoty.com. Now in its 37th year, this program recognizes companies committed to quality employment opportunities, sound business practices and community investment.

Additionally, WMC works with Johnson Financial Group on the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest. This initiative invites public participation through daily voting at www.madeinwis.com during October. Since it began ten years ago, over 1,500 products have been featured and more than 1.5 million votes cast.

Events planned for October include manufacturing roundtables and Business Day—WMC’s largest annual event—where the winner of the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin will be announced. The organization will also release a video highlighting an iconic foundry and run an active social media campaign.

Local manufacturers are encouraged by WMC to take part in student education partnerships, facility tours and hiring events throughout Manufacturing Month.

“We’re proud to celebrate our manufacturers and put a spotlight on their impact,” Bauer continued. “These efforts are important to educate the public, especially our future workforce, about the opportunities and successes of the manufacturing industry.”