STUFF Northeastern Wisconsin

A GUI DE TO

A P RODUCT OF

MADE AND BUILT IN NORTHEASTERN WISCONSIN 2020

COOL STUFF page 8

WHAT IS IT?

made with pride in northeastern Wisconsin

STUFF BLOWN UP page 14 Featuring Two Creeks Solar Park

COST OF LIVING page 16 Personal budgets and finding a salary that works for you

WHO MAKES IT?

COULD I MAKE A CAREER OF THIS?

CHECK OUT JOB PROFILES - PGS 29-39 TO LEARN ABOUT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES!

BUILD YOUR

FUTURE AT

MSOE msoe.edu UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Actuarial Science Architectural Engineering Biomedical Engineering BioMolecular Engineering Business Administration Civil Engineering Computer Engineering Computer Science Construction Management Electrical Engineering Industrial Engineering Mechanical Engineering Nursing Software Engineering User Experience

4-year

graduation guarantee

13:1

student-to-faculty ratio

Top 10 Best

University in the Midwest and Best Value School in the Midwest.*

$65,428 average starting salary

96%

graduate outcomes rate *

U.S. News & World Report (2020)

NNECT WELCOME TO

INTERNS

Wisconsin Employers - Find Your Intern Today!

Using WisConnect, you can find the best and brightest student talent by visiting InternshipWisconsin.com!

On WisConnect, you can:

MADE AND BUILT IN NORTHEASTERN WISCONSIN 2020

STUDENTS ARE CONFRONTED WITH many questions leading up to graduation time.

“What will you study?” “Where are you going to school?” “What do you want to DO?” From four-year universities to technical schools to apprenticeships to working full time, young adults face several choices.

In northeastern Wisconsin, diverse industries dominate the workforce, from jobs in the trades to health care and beyond. Hiring is exploding in growing trades areas like construction and high-tech industries such as advanced manufacturing. Employers statewide are short of qualified candidates for both entry-level positions and the managerial roles held by a generation now retiring.

FIND YOUR For these reasons, it is an opportune time for those entering the workforce because INTERN employers will go out of their way to find steady workers. So, students and job seekers today have options when it’s time to decide what to do with their careers.

Say you found your ideal career and employer, and now you really want to get the job. We talked to hiring managers for a few ways to distinguish yourself as a hiree.

• Set up a customized business profile • Quickly and easily create and list your internships • Search for internship candidates who

Prove your skills in an interview, and find WHAT SETSmeet AN EMPLOYEE APART? your skills requirements A great resume helps, but when it comes to landing the job, soft skills are needed. These are traits that show you will be a good worker.

references who will vouch for you getting your work done.

• Find tips and resources to set up a successful Hiring professionals look for employees who internship program exhibit the following: good attitude, timeliness, ready to work, communicative, positive on social media, finishes shifts and projects, wears appropriate attire, and puts cellphone away when needed.

Here’s to being career ready in 2020!

Dan Meyer, founder and publisher

Get started at BizTimes Media InternshipWisconsin.com

A WORD FROM OUR SPONSORS

Wisconsin.com

WHAT SETS AN EMPLOYER APART? Life can be complicated. Does your employer allow flexibility? Youth apprentices, for example, work shorter days so they can also go to school.

Ongoing training is often a must as technologies and businesses evolve. Does your employer invest in education? This could be as simple as providing job-specific training as needed or offering tuition assistance for degree programs while employed.

THE WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (DWD) is dedicated to its mission to efficiently deliver CALEB FROSTMAN effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin’s diverse workSecretary, Wisconsin Department force needs and advocate for the economic advancement of all of Workforce Development Wisconsin workers, including our future workforce. By preparing our future generation of workforce talent with career and technical education through programs like Youth Apprenticeships (YA) and Registered Apprenticeships (RA), DWD is strengthening Wisconsin’s economy.

Employees want to take pride in their company. For that reason, consider an employer’s industry reputation when looking for work. Does the employer know their business? Are they established in their fields?

Governor Tony Evers and DWD believe in the importance of investing in YA and RA programs because they allow individuals to simultaneously learn in-demand, transferable skills from an employer while earning family sustaining wages. Specifically, YA gives invaluable experience to high school students because it provides not only hands-on skills learning in a career field of their interest but also builds life-ready skills that are applicable in any field. Registered Apprenticeship (RA) is a program that provides adults of all ages the opportunity to learn while earning and growing their income along with their skills.

Everyone likes to have a good workplace experience. Does your employer have a comfortable culture with fun perks? This might mean holiday picnics or family events you can attend. Or maybe they give back to the community in enjoyable ways, such as marching in parades, having volunteer outings or sponsoring civic events.

We are proud to have a record number of Youth Apprentices enrolled (5,099) in 2019, with an expected 10% increase for the 2020-2021 school year. We have also seen a record 28% increase in utilization of our bridge program, guiding Youth Apprentices into Registered Apprenticeships. As we introduce apprenticeship opportunities in new industries, such as IT, health care, and finance, we hope more individuals will consider apprenticeship as a cost-effective approach to pursuing both their education and career. Our Pre-Apprenticeship Readiness Program, which won the 2019 Diversity Award from the State Council on Affirmative Action, is ensuring more people can successfully enter and complete apprenticeship programs.

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CONTENTS A G U I D E TO

MADE AND BUILT IN NORTHEASTERN WISCONSIN 2020

P3

A PRODUCT OF

PU B L ISH ER ’ S L E T T ER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P3

A note from Dan Meyer, publisher.

P5

CO O L S C H O O L S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Exciting happenings in job exploration at area schools.

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CO O L S T U FF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Discover key products produced in this region, along with job openings at these employers.

A GUIDE TO STUFF MADE AND BUILT IN NORTHEASTERN WISCONSIN - 2020 126 N. Jefferson St., Suite 403, Milwaukee, WI 53202-6120 PHONE: 414-277-8181 FAX: 414-277-8191 WEBSITE: www.biztimes.com/stuffne ADVERTISING EMAIL: advertise@biztimes.com EDITORIAL EMAIL: andrew.weiland@biztimes.com REPRINTS: reprints@biztimes.com ADDITIONAL COPIES: linda.crawford@biztimes.com Additional copies $15 each PUBLISHER / OWNER

Dan Meyer................................................. dan.meyer@biztimes.com

S T U FF B LO W N U P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P 14

What is Two Creeks Solar Park? Who works there?

COS T O F L I V I N G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Making a basic budget for life on your own, including local fun and flavor.

C A R EER SP OT L I GH T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Area students working in manufacturing, trades, information technology, and more.

B R E A K I T D O W N .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Supply chain

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Mary Ernst..................................................mary.ernst@biztimes.com COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT / OWNER

Kate Meyer................................................kate.meyer@biztimes.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR

Andrew Weiland.................................. andrew.weiland@biztimes.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Valerie Valentine..................................valerie.valentine@biztimes.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Lauren Anderson................................ lauren.anderson@biztimes.com Arthur Thomas.......................................arthur.thomas@biztimes.com REPORTERS

Brandon Anderegg..........................brandon.anderegg@biztimes.com Maredithe Meyer............................... maredithe.meyer@biztimes.com Alex Zank..................................................... alex.zank@biztimes.com

ADMINISTRATION

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Sue Herzog................................................sue.herzog@biztimes.com

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR OF SALES

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H OT J O BS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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R EG I O N A L CO M PA N I E S A N D E M PLOY E E PR O F I L E S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Local businesses share a look inside their day-to-day and current in-demand positions.

R E S O U R C E S & C A R EER FA I R . . . . . . . . . .

Linda Crawford..................................... linda.crawford@biztimes.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Paddy Kieckhefer.............................. paddy.kieckhefer@biztimes.com Molly Lawrence.....................................molly.lawrence@biztimes.com Maggie Pinnt........................................... maggie.pinnt@biztimes.com Christie Ubl................................................ christie.ubl@biztimes.com INSIDE SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Dylan Dobson........................................ dylan.dobson@biztimes.com

SALES ADMINISTRATOR

Meggan Hau............................................meggan.hau@biztimes.com

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Featuring career fair information and other services for students, employers and educators.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alex Schneider......................................alex.schneider@biztimes.com ART DIRECTOR

Shelly Tabor.............................................. shelly.tabor@biztimes.com FREELANCE ART DIRECTOR

Meredith Jensen.................................. meredith.m.jensen@gmail.com

INDEPENDENT & LOCALLY OWNED • Founded 1995 •

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

COOL SCHOOL S

COOL SCHOOLS WHAT’S COOL AT SCHOOL? Work exploration at middle and high schools, technical colleges, and universities in northeastern Wisconsin

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OPPS FOR THE WIN

hobby or career path, it’s best to jump right in and start searching for beginner resources online,” said Jacob. “Everybody has to start somewhere when they are building a new skill.”

Another KHS student pursued a computer science opportunity created by a university. Senior Grace Guilette was selected for the It Girls Overnight Retreat at Syracuse University, where she learned about the information technology field with other young women from across the country.

At J.R. Gerritts Middle School in Kimberly, the Research and Design class is building a Vex Robot. Students learn blueprint reading, drafting, 3-D modeling and computer programming to create and operate their robot. The robots perform tasks such as turning the pages in a book and picking up crumpled papers.

The IT field is poised to be one of the fastest growing job markets in the region, with an estimated 3,000 new jobs in northeastern Wisconsin by 2021. It is important for all students, including those who are not pursuing an IT career, to learn about technology because it has an increasing role in all career pathways and in modern society.

Kimberly students attend computer science competitions and IT retreats, get tech in middle school courses Kimberly High School works to keep technology up-to-date for students, including Code.org curriculum and a partnership with Microsoft’s TEALS program, which pairs local experts with teachers to co-teach computer science classes at a higher level.

Some students have won awards for their efforts. Recently, junior Jacob Farrell was involved in two different national computer science competitions in which each team he was on earned a top place. “For anyone thinking about computer science as a potential

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COOL SCHOOL S MIDDLE SCHOOLERS AND HIGH SCHOOLERS TRY OUT TECH UW-Oshkosh is working to make a difference in the supply of IT and computer science talent Tech Titan programs are experiential learning opportunities that introduce and engage students in topics, technologies and careers within the IT field.

Tech Titans Mobile App Academy is a four-day commuter academy (no overnight) in which students design and create their own functional mobile applications from start to finish. The program is designed for girls entering 6th to 8th grade with a wide variety of backgrounds and skills. The academy includes an introduction to programming, writing and understanding code, design fundamentals and app development. Participants are grouped based on both age and skill set and no prior computer programming knowledge or experience is necessary.

Sessions are led by University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh professors with student mentors giving one-on-one support to participants. The program kicks off with computer programing fundamentals and moves into more advanced techniques. The students work in small teams to plan, develop and program their apps using Android tablet devices. The final session of the academy involves group presentations with girls demonstrating their mobile apps for classmates, friends and family.

The UW-Oshkosh College of Business also opens its classrooms to high school students interested in business. Tech Titans Enterprise Resource Planning Simulations (ERPSim) is an experiential learning opportunity that teaches students what it takes to run a successful business while exploring new technologies.

Teams of students compete in three rounds of a water distribution company simulation. Through creative decision-making, team members work together to resolve and conquer the unique business challenges and opportunities they face along the way.

While visiting campus, students are also introduced to the many majors, programs and opportunities the college offers.

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ADVANCING FEMALE LEADERSHIP IN TECHNOLOGY UW-Green Bay Women in Technology student group seeks to close the industry gender gap The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s new student organization, Women in Technology (WIT), wants to dismantle the stereotype that men dominate the technology field.

The stereotype is one felt personally by members within the organization, including current WIT president Emily Sawall and vice president Amber Honnef. As the only two females in one of their computer science classes, they committed to WIT with its inaugural meeting in March of 2018. Taylor Reichow and Chloe Nutter joined as secretary and treasurer, respectively.

The group is helping young women in the community spark an interest in technology. For instance, they took their robots on the road, mentoring and demonstrating at Green Bay West High School and the Children’s Museum of Green Bay. “Seeing these girls faces light up at the sight of robots is amazing,” said Amber. WIT also volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club through a sponsorship with Microsoft Digispark to teach younger women about coding. “It’s great that we get to volunteer and show younger girls they have a place in technology,” said Emily.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

TOOLED IN TR ADITION FVTC student club raises money for area shelters through custom ornament sales Each year for nearly a decade, students in Fox Valley Technical College’s (FVTC) Machine Tool Technician programs have put their skills to use by making steel Christmas ornaments.

Machinists make up the majority of workers in the metalworking trades, and create parts for machinery, transportation, printing and paper companies. A machine tool technician’s work involves setting up the machines, operating the controls and shaping metal parts to precise dimensions. They use a variety of hand and electric tools including lathes, milling machines, grinders, drill presses and saws.

Based on the success of the group’s ornament sales, the students extended their product line two years ago to make household keepsake displays and business signage as well. Proceeds from the fundraiser are used to buy food for area pantries and shelters. Last year’s effort raised nearly $3,800 from sales to students, FVTC staff members, and the general public.

GR ADUATING HIGH SCHOOL WITH A COLLEGE DEGREE College Here & Now allows Sheboygan students to earn an associate degree in IT for free The Sheboygan Area School District (SASD), Lakeshore Technical College (LTC), and Lakeland University (LU) have partnered together in the first program that will allow high school students to earn an associate degree in high school.

The College Here & Now program launched at the SASD in fall of 2019. Participating students can pursue their IT-Web & Software Developer associate degree with zero tuition cost and without ever leaving their high school.

With the dual-credit curriculum in place, students who graduate can then continue their education to earn a Lakeland bachelor’s degree in computer science in just two years following graduation. If those students participate in Lakeland’s cooperative education program, they can earn scholarship money and wages to graduate with little or no tuition debt.

Future pathways under discussion by the three institutions include majors in business, health care, and education.

LTC and Lakeland classes will be offered at Sheboygan North and South high schools in dedicated classrooms that the higher education institutions will also use to offer other college coursework.

College Here & Now creates a new workforce for local employers fueled by a student-centered approach by SASD, LTC and Lakeland. In particular, IT professionals are needed to support a broad range of industries in the region.

The program includes a full set of courses starting a student’s freshman year, and continuing each year until graduation. However, students can enroll in the program at any time. Information will be provided to students starting in 8th grade as they begin planning their high school coursework.

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COOL S TUFF

COOL STUFF

made in northeastern Wisconsin

There are a ton of unique, amazing, useful and fun items made in the northeastern Wisconsin region. Some global brands you may recognize; others might surprise you. Take pride in our state’s manufacturing legacy!

These businesses are consistently hiring and providing work for Wisconsinites. We’ve gathered a small sampling of positions recently posted as open. For more info on the job requirements, be sure to check out the career pages on their websites, where you can also apply!

CUSTOM LUXURY YACHTS BURGER BOAT | Burger Boat Company, founded in 1863, has a long tradition of constructing a variety of vessels. Working with many of the world’s most respected designers and naval architects, Burger designs and builds custom yachts and commercial ships. In addition, Burger offers a comprehensive array of services including custom furniture design and construction; specialty metal and joinery fabrications; refit, repair and maintenance. The Manitowoc shipyard is easily reached via the waterways of the Great Lakes.

JOBS AT BURGER BOAT ELECTRICAL ENGINEER Reviews plans and designs, analyzes boat specific requirements, produces electrical plans and work drawings, develops load analysis for power requirements.

CARPENTER - Performs joinery functions related to the design, construction and installation of the highend custom interiors of luxury yachts.

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

SPECIALT Y PAPER PRODUCTS Ahlstrom-Munksjö | Twenty-four paper and pulp mills along the Fox River produce more than five million tons of paper per year and employ around 50,000 people. One of the oldest mills is in Kaukauna. Oscar Thilmany opened Thilmany Papers in 1883. With its location near forests and the north-flowing Fox River, the site was prime for shipping products upriver to Lake Michigan and beyond. Thilmany’s mill is now a part of Ahlstrom-Munksjö, a global manufacturer of products like the CelluStraw, an alternative to plastic straws.

JOBS AT AHLSTROM-MUNKS JÖ LOGISTICS SPECIALIST (KAUKAUNA) - Coordinates and arranges freight transportation services to meet both internal and external shipping requirements at the optimal costs, service, and quality.

JOURNEYMAN MILLWRIGHT (DE PERE) - Involved with installing, maintaining, upgrading, and fabricating machinery and equipment according to layout plans, blueprints and other drawings.

ATHLETIC AND OUTDOOR SOCKS Wigwam Mills, Inc. | For more than 110 years, Wigwam has been crafting classic socks out of their Sheboygan factory. In 1904, the Hand Knit Hosiery Company was formed – a company that would become Wigwam, a leader in outdoor, athletic and active sock production. Today its manufacturing facility is state of the art and green.

The company has installed solar energy panels and motion-sensor lights to limit wasted power, and uses responsible waste management methods to recycle as much as possible.

JOBS AT WIGWAM KNITTING MACHINE TECHNICIAN - Wigwam will train the applicant in all facets of computerized knitting machine repair, operation, and product development and offer an apprenticeship program.

PART-TIME FINISHING OPERATOR - Learn and execute all boarding, pairing, packaging, and printing procedures and standards, to package products according to standards, using appropriate equipment and supplies.

PICKLED VEGGIES GLK Foods | GLK Foods leads the world in sauerkraut production, with up to 90 percent of all sauerkraut made in the U.S. coming from them. The company has a 100+ year history in the Appleton-area community, supporting organizations that help families and children as well as benefit education and the arts. GLK is currently growing, with facility expansions in Bear Creek and a new Oh Snap facility in Little Chute.

These will increase production capacity and office space while improving working environments.

JOBS AT GLK QUALITY ASSURANCE TECHNICIAN - Testing finished products, ensuring coding is correct on packaging and cases, performing audits, and problemsolving all issues related to product quality.

PRODUCTION ASSOCIATE - The “company backbone” of daily operations receives different training for different positions and includes a $1,000 sign-on bonus.

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COOL S TUFF

PL AYGROUNDS BCI Burke | John Edward Burke was a farmer in Fond du Lac who farmed the land where the BCI Burke Company headquarters stand today. In 1920, he started a company that made custom radiators. After receiving a request to fabricate a slide for a family friend, Burke entered the playground industry and soon playground products were the company’s main focus. BCI Burke is known for craftsmanship that brings a higher level of play to parks and playgrounds in communities around the world.

JOBS AT BCI BURKE WAREHOUSE RECEIVING - Maintaining inventory by identifying, labeling, and placing materials and supplies in stock; recording location of inventory.

MIG WELDER - Welds various metal and galvanized steel and carbon steel components together to fabricate or repair playground equipment, machine parts or plant equipment.

HELICOPTERS Enstrom Helicopter | The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation is a Chinese-owned design and manufacturing company based at the Menominee–Marinette Twin County Airport.

The company was founded in 1959 by mining engineer Rudolph J. “Rudy” Enstrom. Enstrom Helicopters are used for military pilot training, law enforcement and emergency medical use, and commercial and agriculture. Enstrom also builds a fun helicopter to fly for the private pilot. All Enstroms are proudly made in the USA with domestic parts and labor.

JOBS AT ENSTROM CNC BRAKE PROGRAMMER/OPERATOR - Produce parts and tools from metal, plastic or other materials using a press brake to make precision bends, punches, or cuts into material.

TEST ENGINEER - Design and develop test programs to measure the functionality and integrity of products and services.

SPORTS NETS Carron Net Company | In 1933, Edward Carron and his son Norman began making fishing nets in the kitchen of their home in Two Rivers. Since then, Carron Net Company, Inc. has grown to become a national leader in the field of sports nets and industrial safety netting. Whether baseball in the ‘50s, tennis in the ‘70s or volleyball and soccer throughout the ‘80s, this fourth-generation family-owned manufacturer has provided nets for games Americans have played.

JOBS AT C ARRON NET COMPANY ACCOUNTING GENERALIST - Analyzing financial information and preparing financial reports, overseeing accounts receivable and payroll and assisting in credit management and HR administrative support.

CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST - Answering phones, providing information regarding products, reporting and analyzing customers’ information and needs, issuing billing details.

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

BT- 67 AIRCR AFT Basler Turbo Conversions | Founded in 1990, Basler Turbo Conversions, LLC is headquartered in Oshkosh at Wittman Regional Airport. The company converts DC-3 aircraft to BT-67s in a remanufacturing process that takes roughly six months and requires 35,000 to 45,000 man hours to complete, depending on configuration. Its BT-67 aircraft is flown in almost every corner of the world. The Basler BT-67 is used in passenger, cargo, military and special purpose missions.

JOBS AT BASLER TURBO CONVERSIONS AIRFRAME AND/OR POWERPLANT (A&P) SHEET METAL MECHANICS - Transforming the DC-3 aircraft to the BT-67 by dismantling, overhauling, repairing, fabricating, assembling, inspecting and erecting all parts of an aircraft.

AIRCRAFT MECHANIC ASSISTANT - Entry-level position for someone familiar with air tools and hand tools with a strong mechanical aptitude to assist the mechanic on the aircraft.

L AKE WEED HARVESTERS Silver Mist | The Eco Harvester was initially designed to help control Milfoil but is able to help with many other aquatic plants. Its shallow water abilities can reach aquatic weeds other harvesters miss. Produced in Waupaca, it is the only machine in the world that both pulls aquatic vegetation by the root system and skims floating, weed fragments, weed mats and algae blooms.

Silver Mist is both a greenhouse and landscaping company as well as an aquatics systems provider.

JOBS AT SILVER MIST MAINTENANCE MECHANIC - Work on dump trucks, loaders, mowers, equipment, and trailers, as well as assembly of new Lake Weed Harvesting equipment. Training is provided for assembly of harvesters.

GENERAL LABOR - Provides quality landscaping and lawn maintenance services as well as aquatics services.

AIR AND R AIL SNOW REMOVAL DEVICES Wausau Equipment Company | When it comes to keeping airfields and rails clean and safe, you can trust in Wausau Equipment Company Inc. The business builds a variety of equipment that includes a chassis, blowers, brooms and plows. Its cold air blower is proven to keep the rails clear all year round. The airport products division facility is adjacent to the Fond du Lac County Airport, and its headquarters and main fabrication plant is in New Berlin.

JOBS AT WAUSAU EQUIPMENT COMPANY PAINTER – POWDER COAT (2ND SHIFT) - Spraying fabricated metal products; selecting and mixing various components together to produce a high-quality finished product.

PLANT MANAGER - Responsible for the safety of operations, the maintenance of equipment and facilities, and improving safety, quality and production operations.

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MORE:

REVENUE STREAMS TO

EXPLORE

With lots of things to do across four seasons, and a wide variety of well-paying skilled-trade jobs, Wisconsin yields some incredibly high rates of return. Just ask Alex Peters.

Wisconsin. It’s more you.

See Alex’s story at InWisconsin.com/STUFF

THINK

MAKE

HAPPEN IN WISCONSIN®

BLOWN UP

STUFF TWO CREEKS SOLAR ENERGY CENTER Solar power provides clean energy by reducing carbon dioxide emissions. It gives us power on sunny days to run the air conditioners in summer!

NextEra Energy Resources’ Two Creeks Solar Energy Center project is going to bring 150 megawatts (MW) of clean and reliable energy to Mani-towoc County. It will be built on 1,300 acres of farmland in Manitowoc County, south of Nuclear Road and east of Highway 42. The project puts northeastern Wisconsin on the map of renewable energy!

The Two Creeks facility is to consist of approximately 500,000 solar panels spread over about 800 acres. The site will also include an operations and maintenance building, a substation and an additional

Who builds it?

Heavy equipment operators drive or control construction equipment, including bulldozers, forklifts, backhoes, dump trucks, and cargo trucks.

National average salary: $62,667

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blown upp

4.5-mile-long above-ground transmission line with a final interconnection point at the Kewaunee Switchyard.

The community benefits associated with the 150 MW project include supporting approximately 200 construc-tion jobs, which will bring an increase in local spending at hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.

The project will provide cost-effective renewable ener-gy to about 33,000 WPScus-tomer households.

Once the Two Creeks Solar Energy Center is operational, it will supply three full-time technician positions for the entire 30-year life of the project.

The Two Creeks facility is expected to be up and running

by December 2020.

Crane operators control a mobile crane to lift, move, position and reposition loads.

National average salary: $55,690

Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical control, wiring, and lighting systems, read technical diagrams and blueprints.

National average salary: $55,190

Solar technicians are responsible for assembly, installation or maintenance of solar panels, sometimes called photovoltaic (PV) systems, measuring, cutting, assembling, and bolting structural framing and solar modules.

National average salary: $40,620

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

Town Hall Rd

Hermann Ln

Nero Rd

Schleis Rd

Two Creeks Rd

Kasmer Rd

42

« 42

Twin Elder Rd Tannery Rd

Proposed Facilities

CTH V

Clay Rd

Proposed Operations & Distribution Main Maintenance Horizontal Directional Drilling Building High Pressure Main

Ln 1 GrassExisting Facilities Miles

0.5

What it made of?

Alternateis Array Church St

• PILES

• FIBER OPTIC • MV CABLE

Town Hall Rd

Meyer Rd

Rd

CTH V

Grass Ln

Ravine Dr

High Pressure Main

Proposed Array

Midle Rd

Alternate Array

Transmission Line Collection Line

Line

d Proposed Oak R Array

Wedge Dr

Existing Facilities

Transmission Line

Church St Pine

Meadow Dr

Distribution Main Horizontal Directional Drilling

1 Miles

Benzinger Rd

Benzinger Rd

Division Dr

High Pressure Main

Clay Rd

0.5

Irish RdCollection

High Pressure Main

Proposed Facilities

Twin Elder Rd

Mraz Rd

E Assman Rd

Division Dr

0

0

Rd

Dr Lake

Alternate Array

Church St

Meadow Dr

Collection Line Proposed Array

E Assman Rd

Meyer Rd

Transmission Line

Wentker Ln

sho re

Mraz Rd

Saxonburg Rd

Mraz Rd Cross Road Dr

E Assman Rd

Benzinger Rd

Nuclear Rd

Birch Dr

High Pressure Main

1 Miles

Ravine Dr

Existing Facilities

0.5

Wentker Ln

Irish Rd

Wedge Dr

Horizontal Directional Drilling

Clay Rd

Nuclear R

Lak e

ay Rd

Distribution Main

Proposed Ln Gesser Operations & Maintenance Building

Gesser Ln

B Sandy

High Pressure Main

E Tapawingo Rd

Cross Road Dr

Cross Road Dr

Nuclear Rd

0

Proposed Facilities

Tapawingo Rd Saxonburg Rd

Stoney Rd

Tapawingo Rd

Proposed Two Creeks Substation

Stoney Rd

Rd

Tannery Rd

Midle Rd

Tannery Rd

Johanek Rd sho re

Division Dr

Saxonburg Rd

Sheba Ln

Sheba Ln

Lak e

• DC CABLE

• SOLAR MODULES

• TRACKER TORQUE TUBES

• AGGREGATE FOR ROADS

• INVERTERS

• FENCE

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Meadow Dr

Ct

Two Creeks Rd

Two Creeks Rd

Wentker Ln

Proposed Transmission Tieline

Lehrmann Rd

Blaha Rd

Midle Rd

«

Zander Rd

Ct

Kasmer Rd

Proposed Two Creeks Substation

Hideaway

Hideaway

Sheba Ln

E Zander Rd

Johanek Rd Zander Rd

E Tapawingo Rd

Gesser Ln

Parma Ln

Norman Rd

Mill Ln

CTH BB

Lake Michigan

Blaha Rd

Lehrmann Rd

Blaha Rd

Mill Ln

Ct

Proposed Transmission Tieline

CTH BB

Tapawingo Rd

Existing Kewaunee Substation

Hermann Ln

Ratajczak Ln

E Zander Rd

Zander Rd

Bauer Ln

Woodside Rd

Nero Rd

Schleis Rd

Two Creeks Town Hall Rd

Norman Rd

CTH B

Mill Ln

CTH BB

Hideaway

Kasmer Rd

Substation

Parma Ln Ratajczak Ln

Bauer Ln

Stoney Rd

³

Existing

Kewaunee Two Creeks Solar Project 9696-CE-100/101

CTH B

Norman Rd

CTH B

Bauer Ln

Woodside Rd

Parma Ln

Two Creeks Solar CREEKS Project 9696-CE-100/101 TWO SOLAR PROJECT

Pro Opera Maint Bu

SAL ARY S TATS

the

Co$t of Living Basic Budgeting: How much do I need to make to live like I want?

IDE NTIF YING THE BASE LINE COSTS FOR YOU R LIFEST YLE CAN HE LP YOU RE VIEW WHAT YOU M UST E ARN TO LIVE .

What jobs can I get that will take me there?

Most industries have a range of salaries to consider when deciding whether a career will pay for all the stuff you want and need.

CareerCruising.com offers up-to-date local salary info to students.

What do I need versus want?

Identifying your true needs (indoor plumbing) versus wants (new BMW) will help you track monthly budget requirements. If you earn money beyond what is needed, save it in the rainy day/fun money fund.

Can I adjust my expectations to match my choices?

If your dreams are beyond your means at this point, you might need to alter course a bit. For example, say you want to buy a house. If you move in with roommates for a while, you can share housing costs while saving for the down payment.

How much for a ...?

Consider these average monthly costs for some items you might need to pay for on your own.

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

MONTHLY BUD G ET FOR A SING LE PE RS ON I N B R O W N CO U N T Y, W I S CO N S I N

EXTR A CASH What do you do for fun?

HOUSING Studio apartment/utilities.......... $534

SAVE UP FOR THESE SPECIAL TIMES AND TREATS.

FOOD Groceries.................................... $246 TRANSPORTATION Car payments, gas, insurance, maintenance.............................. $811

$

4.99

16 OZ. BAG OF FRESH CHEESE CURDS FROM SIMON’S

HEALTH CARE Insurance, out-of-pocket costs............................................ $401

$

OTHER NECESSITIES

CHRISTIAN YELICH AUTHENTIC BREWERS JERSEY

Personal care (clothes, hair), household (internet).................. $315

375

$

35

NEW MOVIE FOR TWO AT MARCUS THEATRES

TAXES State, federal, FICA................... $460 MONTHLY TOTAL................. $2,768

$

$

1,000

IPHONE 11

ANNUAL COST OF LIVING........................... $33,213

$

OTHE R QUE STIONS TO CONSIDE R:

Do you have long-term financial goals, like buying a house or investing in a retirement account?

$

529

100

WISCONSIN TIMBER RATTLERS 10 GAMES WITH FIREWORKS PLAN

GRANITE PEAK SKI AREA SEASON PASS

$

Which of the above are “nice to haves”?

How might you cut costs or find cheaper alternatives?

159

ONE THREE-DAY GENERAL ADMISSION PASS TO ROCK USA IN OSHKOSH

$

Which of the above are “need to haves”?

Are any of the above luxury items?

$

240

TWO TICKETS TO A GREEN BAY PACKERS GAME AT LAMBEAU FIELD

Source: Economic Policy Institute budget calculator

How much do you want to save monthly?

10

/MONTH PLANET FITNESS MEMBERSHIP

$

250

LED UHD 43” TV

28

WISCONSIN STATE PARK SYSTEM ANNUAL ADMISSION STICKER

biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

17

SPONSORED CONTENT

LAND A GREAT-PAYING CAREER WITHOUT ALL THE COLLEGE DEBT

By Rebecca Kleefisch

For the last eight years, I was Wisconsin’s lieutenant governor. That’s like Wisconsin’s version of a vice president. In politics, you get called many things, but a favorite of mine was being dubbed Wisconsin’s “Jobs Ambassador.” As we helped grow Wisconsin’s businesses, those companies needed more workers, which created more chances for more people to earn great livings. Those newly created jobs included many of the careers highlighted in this magazine!

Today, I am proud to partner with Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin on the “Building Wisconsin Jobs Project,” a new push to invigorate and strengthen the effort to recruit and train a wellpaid Wisconsin construction workforce. Construction jobs are outstanding because they pay a lot, people rarely accumulate debt, and you get paid to go to school! (You can see why I like to tell people about these opportunities!)

As part of this effort, I’ve been documenting the lives of people who have chosen construction as a career and how that has changed their lives.

These amazing stories are highlighted in a new micro-series called Money Jobs. If you watch the series, you’ll realize why we called it Money Jobs.

In one episode, a young woman apprentice shares her emotional story about how her construction career will allow her to buy her mom a home. In other episodes, the owner of a heating and air conditioning company explains how his skills allowed him to work everywhere from a tropical vacation destination to his home state of Wisconsin. In another episode you can watch how construction apprentices are buying nice cars and trucks even before graduating!

Unfortunately, too many high school graduates won’t have these opportunities right away because they will opt to attend a four-year university instead, believing it’s their “best” option for financial security. This may be best for some, but costly for many others. According to a study by LendEDU, the average student loan debt per borrower in Wisconsin

is almost $30,000, which results in years of debt payments, especially for many college graduates who are underemployed relative to the investment in their careers.

Compare this to the apprenticeship model. Apprenticeship tuition with Associated Builders and Contractors is only $2,000 per year (including books and administrative fees) and apprentices get paid while they learn in their three- to five-year programs. They learn on the job most days and in the classroom about one day every two weeks.

According to the Wisconsin Technical College System Apprenticeship Salary Report, new graduates completing their apprenticeships in construction crafts have a median salary of $77,000 in our state.

A lot of adults work a lifetime to reach that wage … and still never get there. Now imagine choosing this path out of high school and hitting that earning potential in just three or four years!

Apprentices graduate with essentially no education-related debt and many are able to buy their own houses and build cash reserves before they even graduate. They work with their hands and with new technology to build real things that provide a strong sense of accomplishment. They also already have jobs when they graduate because they continue working for the company that trained them. In addition, construction craftsmen and craftswomen have opportunities to climb into management positions and many become their own bosses after starting their own companies.

You may wonder: what’s the catch? Why would I make that much money that young? Why would I get paid to go to school? The answer: Wisconsin’s construction industry really needs and wants you.

There are 200,000 current construction job openings, so there has never been a better time to consider what construction has to offer!

Learn more about ABC’s micro-series and the stories of individuals who are succeeding in the construction industry at abcwi.org/moneyjobs.

BUILD YOUR CAREER

Earn while you learn.

$83,817 Annual median salary for all construction apprenticeship completers in 2017-18

* Wisconsin Technical College System – Employment and Salary Data for 2017-18 Apprentices.

Median salary is not an average – it is the mid-point of all reported salaries, with half of reported salaries below and half above.

Begin a great career in construction today and start earning money immediately through apprenticeship!

As a skilled construction worker, you’ll be in demand with lots of opportunities to move up the career ladder without college debt.

Get started at BuildYourCareerWI.org

CAREERSPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT ON BOOT CAMP WHAT IS BOOT CAMP? Moraine Park Technical College’s Manufacturing Skills Academy is a program designed to combat the skilled worker shortage by offering a variety of boot camp sessions. The boot camp sessions are free to participants, teach skills that are unique to a particular pathway, and connect students with area employers. The program also combines coursework with a 144-hour paid internship.

Exploratory informational sessions are the required first step in participating in the college’s boot camp program and are available at all three campuses: Fond du Lac, Beaver Dam, or West Bend. n

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER BOOT CAMP? A TOTAL OF 20 STUDENTS GRADUATED from the fall 2019 Manufacturing Skills Academy, 10 from Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and 10 from Welding.

Dominick Rome of West Lake and Elise Winkel of Fond du Lac were this year’s graduation speakers.

Dominick, a CNC graduate, came to the boot camp looking for a career in manufacturing. He served his internship at MIBA in Grafton and is now a full-time employee.

“This program has allowed us to accomplish things that will help establish our lives,” he said. “We are in the process of buying a house.

This major life milestone is only achievable for us because of this

Dominick Rome

Elise Winkel

program. It truly is an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Elise, a welding graduate, came to the program as a college graduate and was the only female in the class. She served her internship at Apache Stainless in Beaver Dam and is now a full-time employee.

“This experience has taught me so much,” she said. “Not only did I learn to weld, but I also learned that the best experiences in life can begin as something way outside of your comfort zone.”

Moraine Park has had 397 participants in the welding and CNC boot camp programs since its induction in 2012. n

TAKING A NEW PATH WITH WELDING CHRISTIAN BAILEY-STEENPORT of Fond du Lac needed a change in his life, but at the time didn’t have access to opportunities that could help turn his life around. It wasn’t long before Christian was in trouble with the law and in jail.

While Christian was in jail, he made solid goals and a plan to achieve them. When he was released, his first stop was Moraine Park Technical College’s welding boot camp.

“Both my grandpa and dad were welders,” he said. “I had some background knowledge of the field and decided to learn more.”

Christian began his college career in February 2019 and hasn’t

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stopped since.

He completed the welding boot camp in May 2019 and immediately enrolled in the welding technical diploma program. He is scheduled to graduate in December 2020. His overall goal is to own a custom metal fabrication shop with his brother, who began his boot camp journey in January 2020.

Currently, Christian works full time at MEC, where he served his boot camp internship and was hired before graduation. He also attends school full-time. He is busy but motivated, and that is the driving force that makes it all work for him.

“I am motivated to succeed,” Christian said. “I’ve overcome a lot in my life, and my college journey hasn’t always been easy, but I keep showing up. I’ve never missed a day of class—ever.”n

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

RYAN HOEY

SPOTLIGHT ON CO-OP WHAT IS COOPERATIVE EDUCATION? In 2017, Lakeland University adopted a cooperative education program that provides students with a new pathway to earn a bachelor’s degree while giving employers in the region a new workforce solution.

Lakeland students work in full- or part-time positions for partner companies, earning valuable work experience and networking opportunities while continuing to progress towards their degree. Some of these experiences also earn academic credit for students.

The program also aims to tackle the nation’s student debt crisis. Between scholarships and wages, Lakeland co-op students are counseled to use their earnings to significantly reduce or eliminate post-graduation debt.

Lakeland’s co-op students provide employers with access to a new talent pool at a time when hiring has been challenging, and they can “test drive” possible new employees. Sheboygan County’s economy in particular relies heavily on manufacturing and hospitality jobs, and with low unemployment totals, area companies have found local hiring to be difficult.

Since co-op was launched, more than 500 students have benefited from Lakeland’s co-op model and specific companies have worked with Lakeland to create their own co-op paths.

CO-OP STUDENT RYAN HAS BEEN WORKING a co-op job at Pine River Pre-Pack in Newton, Wisconsin. He is currently a senior majoring in food safety and quality with a minor in business. He started in chemistry but switched to FSQ when it became available.

“I liked the direct line to employment I saw in the major,” he said.

Lakeland University introduced the nation’s first FSQ bachelor’s degree program in 2018. The program is focused on the safe production of food, and Lakeland enlisted several corporate food partners in development of the program.

At Pine River, Ryan wrote work instructions for processes that the company wanted to document, writing down knowledge of long-term employees, picked orders for shipment, conducted workplace analysis and did environmental monitoring. His work taught him a lot about technical writing and he is considering it as a career path. He also gained insight on the supply chain of a food manufacturer, good manufacturing processes and the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) management system.

This spring, Ryan will be working in a part-time position in supply quality at Sargento. He hopes to become HACCP certified and certified by the Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance (FSPCA). n

Lakeland has adopted cooperative education across all of its academic majors, an approach that is unique among higher education in the Midwest. Lakeland partnered with major corporations and small businesses to make the program a reality. n

ABBY JUOZAPAITIS CO - OP STUDENT MAJORING IN COMPUTER SCIENCE AND SPANISH and minoring in mathematics, Abby Juozapaitis is on track to graduate from Lakeland University in December 2020.

Since May 2019, she has worked as an IT applications intern at WEC Energy Group. Application work includes making changes and releasing applications to get companies on the same platform. Abby works part-time and flexibly.

“They didn’t have an office space for me in Sheboygan so I can work from home, about three hours a day in the afternoon. I login remotely,” she said.

Her work duties include building APIs and UIs for new web applications, rebuilding Crystal Reports into SQL Server Reporting Services, contacting business clients throughout the development stages of an application or report system, writing complex queries for a new report application using SQL, retiring old databases and transferring old data, as well as pushing applications from development to stage and finally to production.

Abby is also in the Lakeland honors program and her research has her working with a humanoid robot to see if it can work with adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. n

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C AREER SPOTLIGHT

YA/CO-OP AT KAUKAUNA HIGH SCHOOL WITH NELS LAWRENCE, Tech & Engineering Teacher, YA/Co-op Coordinator

SPOTLIGHT ON YOUTH APPRENTICESHIPS WHAT IS YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP? Youth Apprenticeship (YA) students are juniors or seniors in high school who complete 450 hours of learning on the job and two semesters of related classes. Students are paid for their work and often leave school early. Many youth apprentices are hired by their employers after graduating. n

“We have had success attracting top-level students with good academic credentials to take our Technology Education classes. Each year, I have had one or more valedictorian-level student in the Youth Apprentice program. Students with such high ability usually attend a four-year college, but college is a stop on the way. A job, a career, is the goal – not college. Sometimes we lose sight of this.

“We are setting new records this year, following up 2018-’19, when we were awarded Manufacturing Career and Technical Education Program of the Year. This year we have grown the program in every area, with nearly 80 students in the pathways offered by youth apprenticeship. Manufacturing leads in numbers, followed closely by construction trades, which include HVAC, sheet metal and electrical contractors. Our region has a concentration of machine tool manufacturers, with over 80 firms here, ranging in size from 25-250 employees.

“I just signed up student No. 60 for this school year as a youth apprentice in manufacturing. He will attend Northeast Wisconsin Technical College next year and continue on his new job at Professional Plating in Brillion. He will be eligible for full benefits and an excellent rate of pay when he goes full time.

“In the manufacturing area, my students have sometimes returned to school in their late 20s or later to become an engineer or a plant supervisor. They make this transition without leaving the company they started at when they were 16-year-old youth apprentices.

“Recently, Advantage Machine, a Kaukauna machine tool company, added a third shift and large expansion. The owners were Kaukauna High School machine tool grads. After their initial start with a company in the area, they rented a space and worked with two machines as they built their business. A to Z Machine in Appleton had five employees when our first student was hired there as a co-op. They have grown to over 100 staff.” n

KHS has leveraged grants to build a state-of-theart welding and machine tool training facility. There are five machine centers with programmable tool changers and all new welding equipment. They are currently working closely with HAAS to establish a new certification program for students on the HAAS machining center.

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

SPOTLIGHT ON

ENTREPRENEURSHIP JENNIFER NOWICKI CULTIVATING A PASSION FOR TEA Entrepreneurship classes at UWGB lead to prestige through awards as well as a small business expansion

ENTREPRENEUR JENNIFER NOWICKI’S EARLY INTRODUCTION TO TEA came at her grandmother’s knee.

She carries fond memories of drinking tea with her grandma following delicious family meals. As a young adult, Jennifer discovered loose-leaf teas that developed her palate even more. In 2005, she enrolled in the Specialty Tea Institute in New York City and immersed herself in the world of tea. Jennifer became acquainted with owners of tea estates and learned from the experts.

Jennifer owned and operated a teahouse in Milwaukee for three years before relocating to Sheboygan. She graduated from UWGreen Bay in 2019 with a degree in business administration. She is Wisconsin’s only certi-

SPOTLIGHT ON

fied tea specialist and one of eight U. S. representatives invited by the Chinese government to two world tea conferences in China.

She has earned accolades for her tea business, the shop Cultivate Taste, two pop-up shop contest awards and being the only Wisconsin representative invited to the prestigious 2019 Draper Competition for Collegiate Women Entrepreneurs.

She has contacts with small farms in origin countries and gets many of her teas directly from them, with a focus on procuring high-quality teas that are organic, fair trade and ethically sourced. Jennifer says, “I’ve been lucky enough to sample many great teas and meet wonderful people on my journey. Now I want to share my knowledge and

appreciation for a good cup of tea.”

Jennifer recently crowdfunded a loan for her expansion to increase inventory, upgrade equipment, and help with marketing. Funds raised were matched two times by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Main Street program.

The Cultivate Taste shop is located at 510 S. 8th Street in Sheboygan. n

HEALTH CARE

HOPE SIEVERT PREPARED TO HELP Making a difference through mission work and nursing UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-OSHKOSH STUDENT HOPE SIEVERT always knew she wanted to help others. Hope started her college journey in a pre-physician assistant track at UW-La Crosse, majoring in biology. Her experiences with a pair of medical mission trips changed her focus.

Hope knew she wanted to become a nurse.

“I knew the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh had an amazing nursing program with a high NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) pass rate, which was the reason why I transferred spring semester of my junior year,” she said.

A native of Green Bay, Hope graduated in December 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish.

Hope was hired before graduation and she works as a registered nurse at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Appleton. Her goal is to gain experience before seeking a role in the intensive care unit.

In the future, Hope plans to continue volunteering her nursing skills in Central America to help those who cannot afford adequate medical care. Her Spanish language abilities help her form a therapeutic relationship with her patients.

Her long-term plans include a return to school for a nurse practitioner degree and becoming a clinical nurse instructor. n biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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C AREER SPOTLIGHT

Why a SKILLED TRADE might be right for you: NOTES FROM HIRING MANAGERS There are many reasons why the skilled trades make great careers and might be the right fit for you!

• DEMAND - Construction is the largest industry in North America. The industry doesn’t have enough skilled tradesmen, so demand is high. In response to this, businesses offer incredible wage and benefits packages.

• WAGES - Entry-level pay far exceeds most unskilled jobs, and compensation increases rapidly as one advances. Experienced trades workers’ wages are often comparable, or higher, than those offered in jobs that require a two- or four-year degree.

• HANDS-ON LEARNING - An entry-level person in the trades starts immediately on projects, working alongside experienced employees. Employees are able to produce finished projects as they progress.

• TEAMWORK - If you enjoy working as part of a team, the trades are a great career choice. Successful individuals working in the trades demonstrate daily the value of teamwork.

Jim Cisco, trainer, AMCS Inc.

• ACCOMPLISHMENTS - As projects progress, those working on them are able to see the results of their labor and recognize their contributions to structures that will last for years to come.

• INNOVATION - It’s an exciting time to get into the skilled trades! Developments in tools, materials, and equipment allow workers to accomplish projects in ways that are safer and more efficient than in the past.

• PRIDE - The skilled trades offer American Pride at its best. See your hard work firsthand and feel a sense of accomplishment in the final product.

People comment on how cool a building is and you’re able to take pride in what you contributed.

• TRANSFERABLE SKILLS - You learn skills that will help you take care of your home. Opportunities are everywhere.

• GET PAID TO TRAIN - Get paid for on-the-job training, and upon completing the Apprenticeship Program, you have a career in the construction industry with opportunity for advancement.

• VARIETY - Every day is different! New challenges arise every day on the job site. No two projects are alike.

• CONTINUOUS TRAINING - Continuous job-specific training is available throughout apprenticeships in the latest technology, equipment and tools. n —T hanks to Jim Cisco, trainer, AMCS Inc., and Heather Dobson, director of business & workforce development, CCI, for their input.

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Heather Dobson, director of business and workforce development, CCI

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

Meet Our Newest Fox Cities Education Center

Your Career Will Start Before You Graduate High School

GPSEd is connecting the students and employers of today with the job opportunities and technology of tomorrow. Graduate with real-work experience in a technical trade, while earning money and your High School diploma. GPSEd students also receive job readiness training and career counseling, because your success is our success.

Learn more, visit gpsed.org/learnmore or contact us at info@gpsed.org.

years

A G U I D E TO MADE AND BUILT IN WISCONSIN

2020

Interested in more STUFF? Southeast Edition: Publishes in July 2020

To advertise: Email advertise@biztimes.com To request a copy: Call (414) 336-7112 A P RODUCT OF

biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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SUPPLY CHAIN

What is SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT? THE SUPPLY CHAIN is essential to manufacturing.

In short, it is materials and process flow.

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT focuses on managing this flow. The goal is to be as efficient as possible in moving the product from the supplier to the customer while creating the best product at the lowest cost. To manage well, you must be familiar with many business areas, including purchasing, operations, inventory management and warehousing, customer service and logistics.

EVERY INDUSTRY – from agriculture to disaster response to retail to IT to health care – has use for supply chain management. More schools are developing specializations and degrees in this area. You can study for a supply chain assistant technical diploma (Lakeshore Technical College), a certificate or an associate degree in supply chain management (Fox Valley Technical College, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College), a bachelor’s degree in business with a supply chain specialization (UW-Green Bay, UW-Oshkosh), or even a master’s degree (UW-Madison, UWWhitewater). Some companies, such as Menasha Packaging Company in Neenah, have specialized supply chain internship programs specific to their product and business. n

LOCAL SUPPLY CHAIN: FROM FOREST PAPER PRO D U C TS I N DUSTRY

TO CUSTOMER

Supply chain managers try to find the shortest routes for materials and products to get to a site. In providing raw materials for processing, often the natural resources closest to the factory are not only the most convenient, but also the most cost-effective.

In the case of northeastern Wisconsin’s paper companies, part of the reason the region evolved to host the industry is due to its proximity to resources. Paper factories use the nearby forests of northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan to provide the timber, and the waterways of the Fox River provide hydroelectric power for their factories. The port city of Green Bay is convenient to transport the materials economically from the region to Lake Michigan and beyond, throughout the globe. » Raw materials (cut timber) are transported by truck to factory (Drivers/Transport being one of the top jobs in demand in Wisconsin). » Material is converted to paper (end product). » Transported by Wisconsin drivers to warehouse (storage). » Transported to retail outlet (store). » Purchased and used by consumers (end user).

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAG EM ENT MOVE

BUY

The steps of a supply chain are: BUY materials for building a product, transport the materials to the factory to MAKE the product, move the product to STORE it, then ship it to SELL to the customer.

MOVE

MAKE

MOVE

MOVE

STORE

MOVE

SELL

MOVE

Image courtesy Marquette University Center for Supply Chain Management

S WHAT JOB WITH A CAN I DO CHAIN N SUPPLY DEGREE I ENT? MANAGEM

Supply chain management career annual salaries:

47,000 - $78,000

$

(Source: WCTC)

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s b HOTjo NOW THESE ARE THE TOP 50 JOBS IN WISCONSIN based on total projected openings for 2020, sorted by the annual median wage. These jobs are all expected to have at least 1,000 openings this year and more than 13,000 in the case of food preparation and serving workers. Take note of the required education for each position. Some jobs offer apprenticeships, which can boost earnings after completion. n

JOB TITLE

ANNUAL MEDIAN WAGE

NO FOR M AL EDUC ATIONAL CREDENTIAL

ANNUAL MEDIAN WAGE

JOB TITLE

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOM A (OR EQUI VALENT ) continued

Construction Laborers

$38,890

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders

$31,770

Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers

$30,020

Social and Human Service Assistants

$31,610

Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals

$26,520

Team Assemblers

$29,910

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers

$26,220

Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors

$28,610

Packers and Packagers

$25,590

Helpers, Production Workers

$27,830

Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse

$24,440

Light Truck or Delivery Services Drivers

$27,770

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

$23,640

First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers

$27,480

Cooks, Restaurant

$23,480

Receptionists and Information Clerks

$27,350

Retail Salespersons

$21,060

Personal Care Aides

$22,430

Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

$20,790

Stock Clerks and Order Fillers

$21,730

Food Preparation Workers

$19,840

Recreation Workers

$21,590

Bartenders

$19,100

Childcare Workers

$20,350

Cashiers

$19,080

Counter Attendants, Cafeteria, Food Concession, and Coffee Shop

$18,890

Waiters and Waitresses

$18,850

Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food

$18,380

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOM A (OR EQUI VALENT )

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOM A + APPRENTICE SHIP Electricians

$58,310

Carpenters

$45,930

P OS T SECON DARY NON - DEGREE AWAR D Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

$40,550

Nursing Assistants

$27,500

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

$24,350

Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products

$59,410

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers

$56,420

First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

$51,050

Sales Representatives, Services, All Other

$49,220

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

$35,610

Machinists

$41,670

Teacher Assistants

$27,440

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers

$40,820

Maintenance and Repair Workers, General

$38,280

First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers

$36,750

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive

$36,080

Customer Service Representatives Office Clerks, General

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SOME COLLEGE, NO DEGREE BACHELOR ’S DEGREE Registered Nurses

$66,430

Accountants and Auditors

$61,210

Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education

$54,530

$34,610

Substitute Teachers

$29,070

$32,680

Source: Short-Term Wisconsin Occupation Employment Projections for 2020, WisConomy

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

A GU I D E TO

MADE AND BUILT IN NORTHEASTERN WISCONSIN 2020

JO B OPPORTUNI TI ES AND C A R E E R INF ORMATI O N F OR AR EA B U S I N E SS E S

S EE THE A REA COMPANIES WITH O P P O RTUN I TI ES FOR YOU!

A R I ENS CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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CO U N T Y M AT ER I A L S CO R P O R AT I O N . . . . . .

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A GU I DE TO

AHEAD OF THE

M EN A SH A CO R P O R AT I O N . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 made and built in south CENTRAL Wisconsin M I C H EL S CO R P O R AT I O N . . . . . . . . . . . 36 M I L L ER EL EC T R I C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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A P R O DU CT O F

COVER STORY page 6

made and built in south CENTRAL Wisconsin SPRING 2019

WHO MAKES IT?

WHAT IS IT?

Cool stuff made and built in south central Wisconsin

EARNING STUFF BLOWN UP page 12

Did you miss out on the inaugural edition of CURVE. STUFF Made and Built in south central Wisconsin?

EDUCATION THAT PAYS. Wisconsin sources for building Epic Systems’ auditorium

COULD I MAKE A CAREER OF THIS?

Cost of LIving page 14

Personal budgets and finding a salary that works for you

denotes participation in the Wisconsin Registered Apprenticeship program

check out our PROFILES - pgs 22-41 Apprenticeships combine jobsite training and classroom to learn about 10+ career opportunities! learning so you can start a career, earn college credits and bring in a wage at the same time. Get started.

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Advanced Manufacturing | Agriculture | Biotechnology | Construction Trades Financial Occupations | Healthcare | Information Technology | Service Trades | Utility Trades

A PRODUCT OF:

This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it.

This project is funded whole or in part by the Department of Labor, receiving Federal funding at $5 million which reflects 100% of the project’s total budget.

biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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Health Insurance Dental Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance

COOL CUSTOMERS

401(k) Bonuses Vacation (paid time off) Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement

WHO WE ARE Based in Brillion, Wisconsin, AriensCo is a privately-owned manufacturer of outdoor power equipment for both consumer and commercial markets. Established in 1933, the company manufactures equipment under the Ariens®, Gravely, Countax® and Westwood® brand names.

Product Discounts

STUFF WE MAKE

INFO

Under the Ariens brand, the company manufactures lawn & garden and snow removal equipment. The Ariens Sno-Thro is the best-selling brand of two-stage snow blowers in the world, making Ariens the King of Snow.

6 55 West Ryan Street Brillion, WI 54110

(920) 562-2141

careers.ariensco.com

Gravely commercial equipment is crafted from a rich heritage of products that have worked the American landscape since 1916. Gravely zero-turn, stand-on and walk-behind mowers plus side-by-side job site vehicles mean business for professionals.

facebook.com/AriensCo

linkedin.com/company/ ariens-company

youtube.com/user/AriensChannel

@Ariens

Employees: 2,000

Year founded: 1933

President: Dan Ariens

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The best-selling garden tractors in the United Kingdom, Countax equipment is designed for the particular challenges provided by the British climate.

Manufactured in England, Westwood garden tractors combine heritage with innovation. The brand is sold exclusively through specialist garden machinery dealers who specialize in after sales support.

» » » » » » »

National September 11 Memorial & Museum Brett Favre Phil Robertson (Duck Dynasty) Carson Daly (Today Show) Green Bay Packers Bryan Bulaga David Bahktiari

FUN STUFF AriensCo is proud of the dynamic culture we’ve created. By joining our team, you’ll have the opportunity to use your unique perspective and creativity to directly impact our business and your career in a fast-paced, high-energy workplace. If our dynamic environment gives our team members wings, then our supportive culture gives them roots, inspired by our five core values. We feel these values make innovation possible. When people feel respected, appreciated and free to do their best work, the results are incredible. And that’s when people, just like you, become leaders.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES/ BENEFITS AriensCo is currently hiring for a number of positions in both manufacturing and office environments. At our corporate offices in Brillion, we employ people in a variety of job functions including: marketing, engineering, industrial design, accounting, finance, IT, manufacturing leadership, customer service, product support and more.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

JAMES RYAN

$60,000 starter

MANUFACTURING LEADER AGE: 33 | YEARS AT COMPANY: 6 WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? My primary responsibility is to keep everyone safe and having fun, while working productively toward a common goal.

WHAT DOES THIS JOB AND WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY MEAN TO YOU? Working at Ariens as a Manufacturing Leader means I get to make an impact on people’s lives; I am able to affect the employee experience and help our teams astound customers

Career Ladder

THE JOB: REQUIREMENTS For this position, we require a high school diploma, a minimum of three years related work experience and demonstrated leadership, coaching and development of people. A Bachelor’s degree and prior work experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred, but not required.

SKILLS » Strong organizational skills: responsible for daily operations on the production floor, including scheduling, staffing, training and troubleshooting to ensure that all operations are in full compliance and meet or exceed safety guidelines. » Lead and motivate team members: provide coaching and development opportunities; monitor success through documented periodic work performance evaluations and enact corrective action, as required » Coordinate departmental activities to meet manufacturing schedules, and take positive action to increase overall equipment effectiveness, achieve Takt time, and reduce lead time » Role model and encourage teamwork: work with inter- and intra-departmental staff to improve productivity and quality standards in order to meet customer requirements » Participate in various lean manufacturing activities to improve products, reduce waste, or learn new skills or operations WHAT YOU’LL DO Manufacturing leaders are responsible for leading and planning daily manufacturing operations of their assigned department to ensure continuous production and delivery of products consistent with customer requirements and established departmental, plant, and company goals. Coach and develop the team, oversee safety of team members, ensure quality standards are met, and lead various lean manufacturing efforts to drive best-in-class operational performance.

CAREER PATH James started at AriensCo as a finishing operator and was promoted first to a team leader position. From there, he was promoted again to manufacturing leader.

5 SENIOR DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

4 DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

3 PRODUCTION MANAGER

2 MANUFACTURING LEADER

1 TEAM LEADER

CONTACT Tony McNamara | Recruiting Lead (920) 756-4466 | tmcnamara@ariensco.com | linkedin.com/in/tonymcnamara biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Competitive Wages & Benefits Paid Vacation & Holidays Product Discounts Uniform Program & Safety Shoe Reimbursement Scholarships for Dependents Training & Leadership Development Employee Assistance Program

INFO

1-800-242-7733

countymaterials.com

facebook.com/CountyMaterials

linkedin.com/company/ county-materials-corp

@countymaterials

youtube.com/user/countymaterials

Employees: 1,500

Year founded: 1946

President: Tim Sonnentag

STUFF NE

FUN STUFF & BENEFITS

County Materials Corporation is a third generation familyowned manufacturer and trusted industry resource for concrete construction and landscaping products. Since 1946 our products have been helping to build the communities where Americans live, work and play. Our company vision is Success, Stability and Support, which defines our culture and inspires our team. We are committed to supporting our team members with training and development opportunities. County Materials is known and respected for employing a team of dedicated exceptional people who produce high quality products in more than 40 locations across six states.

We value our team members, safety, quality and customer service. We are committed to offering great benefits and opportunities including:

STUFF WE MAKE

205 North Street Marathon, WI 54448

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WHO WE ARE

| 2020

» » » » » »

Concrete Pipe & Precast products Prestress Bridge Girders Hollowcore Roof & Floor Systems Insulated Sandwich Walls Ready-mix Concrete and Aggregates Masonry and Landscape products

COOL CUSTOMERS Our products are utilized in infrastructure, transportation construction, commercial, agricultural, municipal, and residential building and landscaping projects of all sizes.

» » » » » » » » » » » » »

Team appreciation events & cookouts Anniversary Service Awards Vacation and Paid Time Off Leadership Development & Award Programs Company Branded Apparel & Uniforms Wellness Program & fitness challenges Driver Appreciation Week Community outreach and run/walk events Sport event experiences Plant tours and seminars Safety, First aid and CPR training Employee Assistance Program Referral Program and incentives

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES As a County Materials team member, you’ll work in a challenging, rewarding company with a strong sense of community. We are looking for motivated, talented individuals for a variety of opportunities throughout our organization. To view a complete list of career openings, visit our Careers page at workatcounty.com.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

DRAFTER WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? Drafters are responsible for design and production drawings for concrete construction products like pipe and manholes, or special structures. This includes details, sketches and routine layouts to ensure adherence to established project specifications and industry standards. In this role, you will use computer-aided estimation programs to assist in preparing quotations and finalizing all drawing. Drafters also coordinate, review and approve shop drawings with customers and distribute final plans to our production teams.

WHAT DOES THIS JOB AND WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY MEAN TO YOU? County Materials is the best place to work because people care about each other and take time to answer questions, plus I receive on the job training. Being part of the County Materials team means helping to build American communities; this makes work fulfilling. County Materials is proud to be an American-based and family-owned business that supports and gives back to local communities where it has locations.

PRODUCTION TEAM MEMBER WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? Production Team Members are responsible for performing a variety of activities related to the production of concrete construction products in a manufacturing facility, including concrete pipe and prestress products and more.

WHAT DOES THIS JOB AND WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY MEAN TO YOU? Being a Production Team Member means I have stable employment and opportunities to learn and move up in the company! County Materials has grown to be a leader in the concrete manufacturing industry with more than 70 years of experience. I feel confident the company will continue to grow in the future. I began working here right after high school and make a good living with my wages and benefits package. I know with hard work, County Materials gives opportunities for additional training and advancement within the company and values my years of service. County Materials shows they appreciate me and my fellow team members.

THE JOB: REQUIREMENTS A qualified candidate for this position will have a minimum of an Associate Degree in Architectural Technology and 0-3 years of experience with proficiency in AutoCAD and knowledge of developing and preparing design documentation in written and computer-aided design formats. Ideal candidates must be able to multi-task, demonstrate self-motivation and have a positive attitude. Physical requirements include frequent sitting, carrying 10-40 pounds on rare occasions, and some standing, walking, and climbing.

SKILLS Drafters must demonstrate self-motivation and be able to work independently in a professional and timely manner, while still being able to perform as part of a team.

Drafters have face-to-face interactions with our customers and other ream members, so exemplary interpersonal skills are important.

THE JOB: REQUIREMENTS Being 18 or older and having a High School education or equivalent is required for employment at County Materials. Many of our key hiring positions are attainable with little to no education or experience, just a willingness to work hard and learn!

SKILLS All Team Members should be self-motivators and have the ability to perform well in a team environment. Being safety minded is a must, as well as a value in the quality of our product and the drive to provide superior customer service to our customers.

Career Ladder 5 OPERATIONS MANAGER

4 PLANT SUPERVISOR

3 PLANT FOREMAN

2 MACHINE OPERATOR

1 PRODUCTION TEAM MEMBER

CONTACT Central Processing Corporation | National HR Management Company (877) 492-5181 | humanresources@centralprocessingcorp.com biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Profit Sharing Vacation (paid time off) Sick (paid time) Dependent Care Spending Account Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internships

FUN STUFF

Menasha Corporation is a corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturer and supply chain solutions provider. We are comprised of two industry-leading companies: Menasha Packaging Company (corrugated) and ORBIS Corporation (plastic). Our companies manufacture products that are used by major food, beverage, consumer products, healthcare, pharmaceutical, industrial and automotive companies. We have been a trusted and reliable company for 171 years and today have over 6,500 employees and 111 locations in North America and Europe.

Employees are active in the community and have fun being involved in events. Menasha Corporation supports their involvement with donations to non-profit organizations and through several company programs, such as our Dollars For Doers and Matching Gift programs. Every year, Menasha Corporation Foundation provides funds to all of our locations and employees at the locations decide where to donate within their community. Together, employee involvement and the company’s Foundation help communities thrive.

STUFF WE MAKE

INFO 1645 Bergstrom Road Neenah, WI 54956

WHO WE ARE

(920) 751-1000

menashacorporation.com bit.ly/Menasha-stuff

Our Menasha Packaging Company designs, prints and produces customized packaging, displays and merchandising material and provides e-commerce solutions and fulfillment services. Our ORBIS subsidiary is a reusable packaging provider of plastic totes, bulk containers, pallets, protective interiors and custom products, and provides reusable packaging management services.

COOL CUSTOMERS

facebook.com/MenashaCorporation

Large global companies in many markets:

linkedin.com/company/27564

@menashacorpnews

@menashacorp

» » » » » » » » »

Employees: 6,564

Year founded: 1849

President & CEO: James M. Kotek

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Food/beverage Personal care Household products Beauty/cosmetics Electronics Retailers Automotive Agriculture Consumer goods/retail

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES We have a wide range of career opportunities at our company! The following are only a few of the possible career tracks – for more, visit bit.ly/menasha-stuff. » » » » » » » »

Manufacturing and Production Operations Management Environmental Health and Safety Maintenance – Equipment and Facilities Supply Chain and Logistics Human Resources Marketing & Business Development Transportation and Warehousing

Employees at Menasha Corporation progress in their careers in a variety of ways! Career advancement at our company may be a direct path, or it may take you across different departments, positions, or locations – each employee has their own path.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

MACHELLE MCNALLY ESTIMATOR

AGE: 30 | YEARS AT COMPANY: 2 WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? I quote projects for customers. This involves routing orders, using our SAP system, and pricing items. I compare prices to previous quotes to make sure they are consistent for customers.

WHAT DOES THIS JOB AND WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY MEAN TO YOU? I appreciate Menasha Corporation because they are good to their employees and care about us. When a company genuinely cares for their employees, it motivates the employees to care about their work which helps the overall goal of creating great customer service!

CALEB LAMPHERE FACILITY MAINTENANCE

AGE: 18 | YEARS AT COMPANY: 1 WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? I maintain facility and equipment to keep our production lines running smoothly and safely. This includes changing filters, supplying pickups, cleaning, painting, moving objects, and fixing issues around the facility.

WHAT DOES THIS JOB AND WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY MEAN TO YOU? I started as a student apprentice at the company while I was still in high school. I learned skills from my mentors and got valuable on-the-job training so that I was offered a full-time position before I graduated. I appreciate that I was able to get a head start on what I wanted to do after school.

THE JOB: REQUIREMENTS I have a bachelor’s degree and upon hiring, I completed a few additional training sessions.

There is a lot to know and retain in this position – it requires training not only when someone is hired but also throughout their career in the department.

SKILLS There are many skills that play a role in this position but organization and communication are the key skills. Organization helps to keep information easily accessible, accurate and consistent with our requirements. And communication is important with every job – to keep an open line so that we stay up to date and on the same page with our activities.

THE JOB: REQUIREMENTS This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent to start, but technical degrees can help develop skills needed to further your career.

SKILLS I have mechanical ability, but most of the skills I’ve gained were learned on the job. I’m also energetic, which helps because I never know what the day is going to look like. And I’m focused, with a drive to do the job right.

Career Ladder 4 ESTIMATING MANAGER

4 MAINTENANCE LEAD

3 TEAM LEAD

3 MILLWRIGHT

2 SENIOR ESTIMATOR

2 MAINTENANCE MECHANIC

1 ESTIMATOR

1 FACILITY MAINTENANCE

CONTACT Recruiting@menasha.com biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance

FUN STUFF

Disability Insurance

We offer a collection of programs engaging our people to participate in events focused on health, family, team building, learning, volunteering and community involvement.

401(k) Vacation (paid time off)

We invest an average of $5,000 per employee on training each year.

Sick (paid time) Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internships

INFO

WHO WE ARE Michels is one of North America’s largest and most trusted transportation and utility contractors. We are a leading provider of construction services to the energy, transportation, communications, power and utility industries.

A sampling of our services provided include horizontal directional drilling, direct pipe, cured-in-place pipe, spray-inplace pipe, tunneling, pipeline, power, tunneling, foundations, paving and communication network construction.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES/ BENEFITS There’s abundant opportunity for all team members at Michels. With thousands of team members across hundreds of positions, there truly is something for everyone. Whether in the field or in the office, Michels team members grow along with the company into new, exciting positions and responsibilities.

STUFF WE MAKE

(920) 583-3132

michels.us

If you use heat or air conditioning, turn on a light, drive on a highway, live in a high-rise, take a subway, rely on the internet, pass time on your cell phone or even drink a glass of water from your faucet, we build the infrastructure for that.

facebook.com/MichelsCorp

COOL CUSTOMERS

linkedin.com/company/ michels-corporation

@michelscareers

We work for many large utilities and energy companies across North America.

817 Main Street Brownsville, WI 53006

youtube.com/user/ MichelsCorporation

Employees: 8,000

Year founded: 1959

President: Patrick D. Michels

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

LINEMAN

$57,000 starter

$90,000

experienced

$160,000 expert

Career Ladder EMPLOYEE 1 LINEMAN

WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems.

WHAT DOES THIS JOB AND WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY MEAN TO YOU? You will build the electrical infrastructure that America relies on every day.

EMPLOYEE 2

4

DIESEL MECHANIC WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? » Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses, heavy trucks, and construction equipment » Maintain and repair any type of diesel engines and heavy-duty fuel systems

SENIOR LEADERSHIP

3 MID-LEVEL MANAGEMENT

THE JOB:

2

REQUIREMENTS » Qualified candidates must have previous related mechanical experience.

SKILLS » Thrive in fast paced environments » Ability to collaborate with various levels of team members » Strong attention to detail » Enjoy working independently » Like new challenges and evolving technology

MANAGER

1 COORDINATOR

CONTACT Becky Holmes | Talent Acquisition Manager (920) 583-1517 | careers@michels.us | facebook.com/MichelsCorp biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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Health Insurance Dental Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance

FUN STUFF

401(k) Vacation (paid time off) Sick (paid time) Flexible Workplace Dependent Care Reimbursement Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement

1635 West Spencer Street Appleton, WI 54914

(920) 734-9821

millerwelds.com

facebook.com/MillerWelders

linkedin.com/company/118096

youtube.com/MillerWelders

@MillerWelders

Employees: 1,500

Year founded: 1929

President: Becky Tuchscherer

STUFF NE

Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, is headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, and wholly owned by Illinois Tool Works (NYSE: ITW). We are the world’s largest manufacturer of arc welding products and we provide crucial solutions for welding safety and health. Our company maintains its industry leadership by setting the standard for reliability, quality, and responsiveness. Our tagline, “The Power of Blue®,” is inspired by the blue color of our Miller equipment.

STUFF WE MAKE

INFO

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WHO WE ARE

| 2020

» Welding Machines » MIG, TIG, Stick, Engine Drive, Wire Feeders, Advanced MIG, Multiprocess, Multioperator, Submerged Arc, Spot Welders » Welding Intelligence » Welding Automation » Plasma Cutters » Induction Heating » Oxy-Fuel

Our culture is family oriented and fun. We work on goals, help each other advance in career, earn paid time off rewards by sharing ideas that work, and support events for the community, the United Way, and employees in need. We host tours of the facility for students, customers, and family.

We have an annual family company picnic which hosts up to 3,000 people as well as an event at the Building for Kids during the end of year holidays. Our products can be seen on popular shows such as Goldrush and on millerwelds.com, we have a gallery of Do-It-Yourself projects submitted by our customers. We also like sharing food!

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES/ BENEFITS Build your Career with Us: » Business Careers - Sales, Marketing, Engineering, Finance, Operations, HR » Technical Careers - Lab Technicians, Documentation Technicians, Service Technicians, Engineering Technicians » Skilled Manufacturing Careers - Machinist, Welder/ Fabricator, Coil Winders, Maintenance Mechanics, Electricians, Automated Manufacturing Technicians, Electromechanical and Electronic Technicians » We invest in developing your talents: • Ongoing leadership and skill development programs • Opportunities to try challenging assignments and learn new skills • Tuition reimbursement » At Miller — we work with you to succeed.

• Ability to try many positions or roles - internships/ apprenticeships • Flexibility to pursue your talents, passions, and goals • Supportive work environment

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

$35,360 starter

THE JOB: REQUIREMENTS » High school diploma or equivalent » 2 years of Welding experience » Skilled in math » Team player » Ability to perform set-ups, cross-train, and comprehend work orders Make adjustments on machines to meet quality specifications

MOLLIE DIPIETRO WELDER

AGE: 19 | YEARS AT COMPANY: 2 WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? » Set up manual and robotic welding equipment » Operation of manual and robotic welding equipment » Preventative maintenance » Basic machine trouble shooting » Scheduling of production runs » Ordering material

SKILLS » Blueprint reading/analyzing » Math skills » Troubleshooting machines » Basic computer skills » Most of the skills can be learned through time and exposure to new machines and processes

$62,420 experienced

Career Ladder

THE JOB:

KYLE BELONGER MACHINIST

AGE: 25 | YEARS AT COMPANY: 6 WHAT ARE YOUR JOB DUTIES? » Setting up equipment for cell » Operating equipment in cell » Operating multiple machines on shift » Ordering material » Scheduling production runs » Troubleshooting when machines are down

REQUIREMENTS » Associate’s degree, Machine Tool program or 5-7 years of previous experience » Skilled in mathematics, blueprints, and measuring devices » Team player, self-starter and good communication skills are key » Ability to perform set-ups, cross-train, and comprehend/perform SPC charting » Make adjustments on machines to meet print specifications SKILLS » Blueprint reading / analyzing » Measuring devices » Math skills » Troubleshooting machine programs » Basic computer skills » Most of the skills can be learned through time and exposure to new machines and processes

3 ADVANCED CAREER

VARIES DEPENDING UPON PATH

2 METAL FABRICATION $

17/HR-$32/HR

1 GENERAL MANUFACTURING $

14/HR-$29/HR

CONTACT Jess Haase | HR Manager (920) 735-4419 | jess.haase@millerwelds.com | facebook.com/MillerWelders biztimes.com/stuffne | S T U F F N E

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RESOURCES

Resources for students, schools & employers Your one-stop listing of useful programs for students, educators and employers of tomorrow’s workforce in northeastern Wisconsin.

WISCONSIN EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNIT Y PROGRAMS

dpi.wi.gov/weop Provides college and career readiness programs, resources and support for young adults.

WISCONNECT INTERNSHIP COORDINATION

internshipwisconsin.com Connects employers and students interested in internships.

WISCONSIN AHEC HEALTH CAREERS

S T U FF FO R S T U D E N T S

wihealthcareers.org Information on health careers in Wisconsin.

CAREER CRUISING

WISCONSIN TECHCONNECT

careercruising.com All Wisconsin students can access career-related assessments, career and college profiles, and information about financial aid and employment.

CODE.ORG

S T U FF FO R C A R E E R PL A N N I N G

code.org Free computer science courses.

CAREER INFONET

CYBER EDUCATION WISCONSIN

cyberedu.wi.gov Info on cybersecurity degrees, career paths, certifications and courses.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION – ACADEMIC & CAREER PLANNING

dpi.wi.gov/acp Equips students with tools to make informed choices about postsecondary education and training.

DREAM IT. DO IT. – WISCONSIN

dreamitdoitwi.com Dream it. Do It.’s focus is to increase awareness of the career opportunities available in manufacturing.

GIRL DEVELOP IT

girldevelopit.com Organization devoted to getting women the materials needed to pursue careers in software development.

I.C. STARS

icstars.org Technology-based workforce development, leadership training program and social enterprise.

SKILLSUSA

skillsusa.org A partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce.

WISCONSIN DUAL ENROLLMENT

dpi.wi.gov/dual-enrollment High school students can attend a Wisconsin postsecondary institution for high school and college credit at no cost while earning college and high school credits.

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careeronestop.org Information for career exploration, training and jobs.

wisconsintechconnect.com Statewide online employment system for Wisconsin Technical College students and graduates.

WISCONOMY

wisconomy.com Job search and employment information from the State of Wisconsin.

CAREER OUTLOOK

bls.gov/careeroutlook Government-provided data and information on occupations and industries, pay and benefits.

HENDRICKS CAREERTEK

hendrickscareertek.org Provides career education and opportunities to youth in the greater Beloit area.

JOB CENTER OF WISCONSIN

jobcenterofwisconsin.com Current job openings as reported by employers throughout Wisconsin.

JOB UP WISCONSIN

jobupwisconsin.com Answers to questions on career planning, marketing yourself, job search and emotional support.

LIVECAREER

livecareer.com Articles on job search, salary negotiation and career advice.

MY SKILLS MY FUTURE

myskillsmyfuture.org Compare careers, find training and search for jobs.

O*NET ONLINE

onetonline.org Job and skills search tools.

WAYUP

wayup.com Advice, tips and articles for students to assist them in getting hired.

S T U FF FO R E M PLOY E R S ABC OF WISCONSIN

abcwi.org Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a membership organization that actively promotes performance-based construction.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS

nahb.org Member organization serving America’s housing industry since the early 1940s.

SOCIET Y FOR HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

shrm.org Promotes HR as a profession and provides education, certification and networking to members.

ENVISION GREATER FOND DU LAC

envisiongreaterfld.com Strengthening workforce and community development, and attraction and growth of businesses throughout the county.

NEW IT ALLIANCE

newitalliance.com Nonprofit collaboration of companies and organizations to inspire the pursuit of IT as a career pathway.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

FOX CITIES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

foxcitieschamber.com Promoting the economic growth and prosperity of members, investors and the Fox Cities region.

FOX CITIES REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP

Enhancing the local economy by supporting the expansion of the local primary job base.

FOX VALLEY NARI

remodelfoxvalley.com Promoting professionalism, education and ethics within the remodeling industry.

GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON WORKFORCE INVESTMENT

wi-cwi.org Aiding Wisconsin employers in finding the workers they need and providing training resources.

REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP

wisconsinapprenticeship.org Helps employers address the ongoing need for a highly skilled workforce.

STEM FORWARD

stemforward.org Programs to inspire youth to pursue STEM careers and provide a pipeline of talent to businesses.

TEALS

tealsk12.org Microsoft Philanthropies’ Technology Education and Literacy in Schools (TEALS) helps high schools build computer science programs.

GREATER GREEN BAY CHAMBER

greatergbc.org Helping businesses succeed to build a greater Green Bay area.

THE NEW NORTH

thenewnorth.com Regional marketing and economic development organization representing 18 counties of northeast Wisconsin.

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

dwd.wisconsin.gov Building and strengthening Wisconsin’s workforce through job training and employment assistance.

WISCONSIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP.

inwisconsin.com Leading economic development efforts for the state by providing resources to companies and communities.

WISCONSIN FAST FORWARD GRANTS

wisconsinfastforward.com Grants to support employer-led worker training projects.

WISCONSIN MANUFACTURERS & COMMERCE

wmc.org Wisconsin’s business voice since 1911, representing more than 3,800 member companies.

WISCONSIN MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP

wmep.org Specialized nonprofit organization providing targeted consulting services to small and medium manufacturers within its service territory in Wisconsin.

ADVANCING AI WISCONSIN

advancingaiwisconsin.com Initiative to increase awareness of digital disruption technologies and their impact on Wisconsin businesses.

S T U FF FO R E D U C ATO R S CYBERPATRIOT

uscyberpatriot.org National Youth Cyber Education Program created by the Air Force Association to inspire K-12 students toward careers in cybersecurity or other STEM disciplines.

FUTURE READY SCHOOLS

H I G H E R E D S T U FF FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

fvtc.edu LAKESHORE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

gotoltc.edu LAKELAND UNIVERSIT Y

lakeland.edu

futureready.org Helps K-12 school leaders plan and implement personalized, researchbased digital learning strategies.

NORTHEAST WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

GPS EDUCATION PARTNERS

marianuniversity.edu

gpsed.org Manufacturing-specific, statewide Department of Workforce Development Youth Apprenticeship program.

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF WISCONSIN

juniorachievement.org Preparing students in the areas of work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

PATHWAYS WISCONSIN

dpi.wi.gov/pathways-wisconsin A regional approach to deliver highquality state-endorsed regional career pathways in the state.

nwtc.edu MARIAN UNIVERSIT Y

MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE

morainepark.edu UNIVERSIT Y OF WISCONSIN-GREEN BAY

uwgb.edu UNIVERSIT Y OF WISCONSINOSHKOSH

uwosh.edu

PROJECT LEAD THE WAY

pltw.org Offers transformative learning experiences for K-12 students and teachers across the U.S. STEM 101

stem101.org Provides 21st-century, career-minded curriculum.

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C AREER FAIR

JOB AND CAREER FAIRS,

2020

Skill-Building & Hiring Events

The best way to present yourself as a job candidate is to meet hiring managers in person! Career fairs and hiring events let you go face-to-face with many employers who are actively recruiting workers.

If you are actively looking for

MARCH

INTERVIEWING STRATEGIES

MANUFACTURING JOB FAIR

Mid-State Technical College, All locations Adams – Room 114 Marshfield – Room 101 Stevens Point – Room 410 Wisconsin Rapids – Room T121

March 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fox Valley Technical College Appleton Campus Rooms A170 & C190, Entrance 15 or 16 1825 N. Bluemound Drive, Appleton

March 30, Noon to 3 p.m.

March 3-4, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Fox Valley Technical College Appleton Campus Rooms A170, Entrance 16 1825 N. Bluemound Drive, Appleton

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Green Bay Campus

on this list and walk out with

FUTURE FOX CITIES 2020

a new position. You could

March 4-5, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

also attend these events just

Fox Cities Exhibition Center 335 W. Lawrence St., Appleton

of jobs and learn about the

HEALTHCARE JOB FAIR

OPEN HOUSE SPRING 2020

a job, you can attend an event

to learn about different kinds

March 17, Noon to 12:50 p.m.

MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT

APRIL MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT April 2, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

March 5, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

Career fairs are also great

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

2020 FOND DU LAC FAIR

practice for interview

EXPLORE STARTING A BUSINESS

situations. You might meet

March 11, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

someone who could help

D.J. Bordini Center Room BC112A 5 N. Systems Drive, Appleton

companies in your community.

you with a job later or learn something new about a company you are interested

AAUW TECH SAVVY - STEM PROGRAM FOR GIRLS

in. Add these area events

March 14, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

to your calendar today.

UWO Fox Cities 1478 Midway Road, Menasha

42

STUFF NE

| 2020

April 9, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Fond du Lac County Fairgrounds Expo Center 601 Martin Drive, Fond du Lac

TRADES, ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIES CAREER FAIR April 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Green Bay Campus - Commons

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MILWAUKEE

ENGINEERING DAY

DENTAL HYGIENIST INFO SESSION

April 5, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

July 29, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Mid-State Technical College Wisconsin Rapids Campus 500 32nd St. North, Wisconsin Rapids

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Green Bay Campus – SC130

DIAGNOTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY (DMS) INFO SESSION April 14, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Green Bay Campus – SC130

RESUME REVIEW EVENT

AUGUST MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT Aug. 6, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

April 21, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Clintonville Regional Center 525 S. Main St., Clintonville

SEPTEMBER

AVIATION JOB FAIR

MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT

April 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

S. J. Spanbauer Aviation & Industrial Center 3601 Oregon St., Oshkosh

MAY MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT May 7, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

RESUME REVIEW EVENT May 5 & 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fox Valley Technical College Appleton Campus Commons 1825 N. Bluemound Drive, Appleton

JUNE MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT June 4, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

THE 31ST ANNUAL ENERGY FAIR June 26-28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Midwest Renewable Energy Association 7558 Deer Road, Custer

JULY MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT July 2, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

Sept. 3, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

OCTOBER MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT Oct. 1, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

NOVEMBER MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT Nov. 5, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

DENTAL HYGIENIST INFO SESSION Nov. 11, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Green Bay Campus – SC130

DECEMBER

Suggestions for Success « Pre-register, if possible, to receive updates about the event. « Bring copies of your resume and prepare a personal pitch to help employers get to know you.

MULTI-EMPLOYER RECRUITMENT EVENT

« Dress professionally for good first impressions.

Dec. 3, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

« Go in with an open mind and meet as many companies as you can.

Sheboygan County Job Center 3620 Wilgus Ave., Sheboygan

« Keep track of who you talk to and send follow-up emails.

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43

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