FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joylynn Gilles
Director, Stakeholder Relations
Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity
Phone: 608.729.4151
Email: gilles@wicmp.org
Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity Releases 2024-2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report
Workforce Challenges, AI Adoption, and Industry Resilience Highlighted in Latest Report
MADISON, WI – March 3, 2025 – The Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity (WCMP) has released its highly anticipated print version of the 2024-2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report, providing additional in-depth analysis of the state’s manufacturing sector based on data collected in 2024. This fourth annual report offers data-driven insights into the industry’s challenges, opportunities, and future outlook based on interviews with 400 manufacturing executives and five focus groups across Wisconsin, plus added perspectives from industry leaders.
With manufacturing contributing more than $66 billion to Wisconsin’s economy and employing nearly 480,000 workers, the sector remains the backbone of the state’s economic success. The 2024-2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report highlights critical industry trends, including:
Key Findings:
- Workforce Shortages Persist – The biggest challenge facing manufacturers continues to be attracting and retaining skilled workers. The labor shortage is driving increased investments in employee retention, training programs, and automation.
- AI and Cybersecurity Take Center Stage – More manufacturers are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into administrative functions, with growing interest in AI-driven production efficiencies. Simultaneously, cybersecurity awareness is increasing, with more companies taking proactive steps to protect their data.
- Optimism Amid Economic Uncertainty – While fewer manufacturers believe Wisconsin’s economy is growing, confidence in their own company’s financial outlook remains high, with businesses focusing on innovation and efficiency.
- Technology and Automation as Growth Catalysts – Manufacturers are leveraging automation to enhance productivity, with large firms leading the way. However, financial constraints remain a key obstacle for smaller companies looking to implement new technologies.
- Manufacturing Strength Defines Wisconsin – The state’s diverse manufacturing base continues to provide stability, resilience, and a competitive edge in the national and global markets.
Industry Insights: Four Expert Articles
The 2024-2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report includes four critical perspectives from industry leaders and experts, offering valuable insights on key topics shaping the future of Wisconsin manufacturing:
- First Business Bank’s Economic Perspective – Kevin Kane from First Business Bank examines the role manufacturing plays in Wisconsin’s economy, highlighting the financial trends and opportunities shaping the industry’s future.
- WMEP’s Transformational Productivity Initiative – WMEP Manufacturing Solutions outlines how a holistic approach to productivity and workforce issues can help manufacturers grow faster and remain competitive in a tight labor market.
- UW-Stout’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing & AI – The UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center explores how AI and advanced manufacturing technologies are being leveraged to enhance industry capabilities and drive innovation.
- Top Floor Technologies’ Marketing Strategies for Manufacturers – Justin Kerley from Top Floor Technologies provides a roadmap for manufacturers to optimize their sales and marketing investments, emphasizing digital strategies and customer engagement.
A Call to Action for Wisconsin’s Manufacturers
“As we navigate a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, this report provides a clear roadmap for Wisconsin manufacturers to stay competitive,” said Buckley Brinkman, Executive Director & CEO of WCMP. “By embracing new technologies, addressing workforce challenges, and capitalizing on industry strengths, we can build a more resilient and innovative manufacturing sector.”
The 2024-2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report is an essential resource for policymakers, business leaders, and economic stakeholders. It provides the insights needed to inform strategic decisions that will shape the future of Wisconsin’s manufacturing industry.
The report was produced in collaboration with WMEP Manufacturing Solutions, UW-Stout Manufacturing Outreach Center, and the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Network, with sponsorship from First Business Bank and Top Floor Technologies.
To access the 2024-2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report, visit the WCMP website.
About WCMP
The Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity (WCMP) is dedicated to advancing the state’s manufacturing sector by providing resources, expertise, and strategic support. WCMP collaborates with state and national partners to ensure that small- and medium-sized manufacturers have the tools they need to compete and thrive.
