STUFF WI 2022

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D E S I G N E D , M A D E A N D B U I LT I N W I S C O N S I N S P R I N G 2 02 2

STUFF BLOWN UP page 12

Companies and jobs to build a high school

COOL STUFF pages 1 6 - 1 9

Made and designed in Wisconsin

HOW DO YOU BUILD... page 26

A budget to keep all of your bills paid

CHECK OUT COMPANY PROFILES ON PAGES 29-47 TO LEARN ABOUT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES!

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

THERE ARE CAREER POSSIBILITIES EVERYWHERE, STUFF HELPS YOU EXPLORE THEM DEAR READERS, Our BizTimes Media team is proud to welcome you to the latest edition of STUFF Designed, Made and Built in Wisconsin. This magazine is an opportunity for students, parents, educators and job seekers to explore jobs and educational programs that make manufacturing and construction careers possible. You will find stories from people all across the state, including Dane and Rock counties in the south central region, La Crosse County to the west, Brown and Winnebago counties in the northeast region, and more.

STUFF also offers insights from early career professionals on their jobs, how to build a career and how to make a budget, all things that will help students as they venture into the world of work.

Around 70% of jobs by 2027 will require more than a high school degree, with a little more than half of those requiring a four-year degree or more, according to a Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce estimate. While the four-year options are widely known, the opportunities at technical schools are not. That’s why we primarily highlight those two-year (or under) options in our “Cool Schools” feature (page 6).

Our “Cool Stuff” feature (page 16) explores just a handful of the thousands of products made by southeastern Wisconsin companies, while “Stuff Blown Up” (page 12) highlights all the jobs and companies involved in a construction project and “Supply Chain” (page 14) maps out how complex getting products to market can be.

Above all else, we hope that STUFF helps you understand and explore the career options available to you as a student or current job seeker. Read about some of the paths area employees have taken in “Career Spotlight” (page 20) and take a look at the “Hot Jobs” (page 28) that are projected to grow in coming years.

On pages 30-47, you’ll find company and employee profiles, and you’ll learn about the cool stuff they do, including company internships, tours, part-time and full-time career opportunities and more.

Throughout the year at stuff.biztimes.com, you can find the digital edition and you’ll learn more about these companies and other news, trends and career opportunities.

Finally, we are especially grateful to the organizations that participated in STUFF this year, including GPS Education Partners, a longtime supporter of STUFF. We are confident that STUFF will help you as you plan your career.

Please send me an email at dan.meyer@biztimes.com, and let me know if you have any comments or suggestions on how STUFF and BizTimes Media can help you.

Dan Meyer Founder and publisher BizTimes Media – publisher of STUFF

A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR GPS EDUCATION PARTNERS (GPSED) is a nonprofit that operates a statewide Department of Workforce Development Youth Apprenticeship consortium in manufacturing throughout Wisconsin. For 20 years GPSEd has served as an intermediary partner to schools, businesses, and communities to provide scalable, quality work-based learning solutions that impact educational systems, talent pipeline needs, and help sustain communities.

By facilitating employer-school partnerships, we are able to deliver custom talent solutions that provide training, industry and educational certifications, apprenticeships, and career services that create better pathways for students while delivering measurable business outcomes that drive both personal and economic success.

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GPSEd’s work-based learning programs also include the development of vital soft skills necessary for students to gain and retain employment. Essential soft skills employers are looking for include reliability, leadership, cultural awareness, interpersonal skills, professionalism, conflict management, and work ethic, to name a few. These skills serve employers well but remain with the individual for a lifetime We encourage employers to get involved and learn how work-based learning programs can help address their workforce challenges, create access and provide equal opportunity for all students to find, experience, and define their pathway to success.

GPSEd supports local communities by keeping Wisconsin talent in Wisconsin businesses.

If you’d like more information on work-based learning visit us at www.gpsed.org or email info@gpsed.org

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

CONTENTS A GUIDE TO

DESIGNED, MADE AND BUILT IN WISCONSIN SPRING 2022

A SUPPLEMENT OF

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

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A note from Dan Meyer, publisher.

A GUIDE TO STUFF DESIGNED, MADE AND BUILT IN WISCONSIN - 2022 126 N. Jefferson St., Suite 403, Milwaukee, WI 53202-6120 PHONE: 414-277-8181 FAX: 414-277-8191 WEBSITE: stuff.biztimes.com 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 DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Mary Ernst .................................................mary.ernst@biztimes.com

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

Explore programs to take your skills to the next level in manufacturing, construction and trades.

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

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Get a closer look at jobs and companies in construction.

SU PPLY C H A I N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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A breakdown of how raw materials become finished products.

CO O L S T U FF PAGES 16-19 Made and designed in Wisconsin

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT / OWNER

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

EDITORIAL EDITOR

Andrew Weiland ................................. andrew.weiland@biztimes.com STUFF - PROJECT EDITOR

Arthur Thomas ......................................arthur.thomas@biztimes.com

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

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Discover products designed and made

by Wisconsin companies and learn about jobs they are hiring for.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Lauren Anderson ............................... lauren.anderson@biztimes.com REPORTERS

Maredithe Meyer............................... maredithe.meyer@biztimes.com Ashley Smart ...........................................ashley.smart@biztimes.com Cara Spoto ............................................... cara.spoto@biztimes.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Diane Bacha

ADMINISTRATION

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

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

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR OF SALES

Linda Crawford..................................... linda.crawford@biztimes.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Christie Ubl ............................................... christie.ubl@biztimes.com

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

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Learn about the journey Wisconsin employees have taken to their current roles.

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

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

H O W D O YO U B U I L D… A budget? PAGE 26

Tackle the ins and outs of building a budget.

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See the jobs projected to grow in manufacturing, construction and maintenance.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Dylan Dobson ....................................... dylan.dobson@biztimes.com Paddy Kieckhefer ............................. paddy.kieckhefer@biztimes.com SALES ADMIN

Gracie Schneble .................................gracie.schneble@biztimes.com

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 •

LO C 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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Wisconsin businesses share a look inside their day-to-day and current in-demand positions.

RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Featuring career information sources and tools for students, employers, educators and job seekers.

Companies and jobs building a state-of-the-art school

CHECK OUT JOB PROFILES PAGES 30-47 biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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Explore a great career without the college debt Apprenticeship isn’t for everyone ...

When you speak with Jessica Milan, you can tell instantly that apprenticeship is for her. She loves her career choice, which could open many doors, including the door to her mom’s home. Since Jessica was a little girl, she talked about buying her mother a home and she has her eyes on accomplishing that goal someday, thanks to apprenticeship.

Jessica is one of many amazing stories highlighted in ABC of Wisconsin’s micro-video series called Money Jobs. If you watch the series, you’ll realize why we called it Money Jobs. Apprenticeship provides a solid income and opens doors to many different future opportunities.

Watch ABC’s micro-video series with success stories in the construction industry at abcwi.org/moneyjobs.

“My mom, when I first told her I wanted to go into construction, was okay with it, because I believe she thought I was going to go into architecture or engineering,” said Milan. “But, once I told her I wanted to be a carpenter, she looked like she wanted to have a heart attack.”

Apprenticeship also opens the door to other career options. Many of these graduates will become leaders on the job site in a variety of different positions. Some will eventually become apprenticeship instructors and teach our future skilled craft persons or become owners of their own companies. One of ABC of Wisconsin’s first electrical apprentices now owns the company that sponsored him in the apprenticeship program.

The skills learned in an apprenticeship are extremely valuable and can be taken anywhere but can’t be outsourced to someone overseas. Apprentices get to work with their hands and with new technology to build tangible things that provide a strong sense of accomplishment.

Jessica, who works with Corporate Contractors, Inc. (CCI) in Beloit, was excited to work on the award-winning Lincoln Academy in Beloit, which is a K4-12 tuition-free public charter school, designed as an innovative, high-quality public-school option focused on scholar success. She also competed in the ABC of Wisconsin statewide Apprenticeship Skill Competition in January.

Soon, Jessica will graduate from her apprenticeship.

You can be sure that Jessica’s mom will be at her side cheering her on. It will be an exciting day. It will show that Jessica finished the program, but more importantly, that big things are ahead for her.

From the start, apprentices are paid to learn on the job and to even attend class. Apprentices have little or no debt because tuition is a fraction of what it costs to attend college and some employers – who are the ones who sponsor apprentices – may even pay the tuition for their apprentices. Apprentices are able to purchase new trucks and cars and even homes before their high school classmates are even out of college.

For many parents, there is only one path for children to find success: a four-year college. But parents who learn about the benefits of apprenticeship are more open to it. Unfortunately, too many high school graduates are convinced they need to attend a four-year college, which could lead to a great career if everything falls into place.

However, for many, it leaves a pile of debt that can be difficult to dig out from underneath.

Jessica Milan

Jessica competes at the ABC of Wisconsin Apprenticeship Skill Competition in 2022.

BUILD YOUR

CAREER

Earn while you learn and be in demand

$81,114 Median annual earnings for all trades in construction sector.

Source: Wisconsin Technical College System Apprenticeship Completion Report for apprenticeship salaries soon after completion in 2019-20. This is the mid-point of all reported salaries, with half above and half below.

Explore 11 trades at BuildYourCareerWI.org

cool COOL SCHOOL S

SCHOOLS Training programs at technical colleges across Wisconsin to prepare for a career

Several students perform tasks related to electrical observations and diagnosis. Ben Charles is in the black oxford shirt and bright blue mask.

COURTESY MADISON AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

two courses from Charles at the Madison College Truax campus — all at no cost. They must also work a minimum of 450 paid hours in a related job.

When done, they’re ready for entry-level jobs. But the program also earns students seven credits they can apply to further studies at Madison College, such as an associate degree in automotive technology or an automotive technician diploma.

A JUMP-START ON AUTOMOTIVE CAREERS Program prepares high schoolers for auto-repair jobs, and credits can be applied to college, too In four years of teaching high school students about automotive repair, Ben Charles has seen students get jobs in auto shops, seek additional training, and decide to go in a different direction. He considers each one a success.

“I burst with joy that these students are doing what their calling is in life,” said Charles.

Charles is the instructor for the Automotive

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Charles meets with students two evenings a week to teach them “everything from timing belts to replacing engines, performing alignments and everything in between. We want them to understand the full scope of what this field has to offer.”

Youth Education Systems (AYES) program at Madison Area Technical College. The program, offered to high school students in 16 districts, is part of a larger initiative called the Dane County School Consortium.

There’s lots of hands-on learning that includes diagnostics — “figuring out the root cause of an issue.” Charles, who was a diagnostician early in his career, wants students to learn the critical thinking skills necessary for solving puzzles they’ll encounter in auto-repair shops.

Once enrolled, students attend night classes at Oregon High School the first year to learn the fundamentals of being an automotive technician. The following year, they take

The most common jobs Charles sees students land right out of the program are at independent automotive repair shops and dealerships. Applying credits to further

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COURTESY MADISON AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

represented students of all kinds, in part because that’s what the market needs.

“The industry needs bodies to do the work,” said Thistle. “The best source of these bodies is through populations previously excluded from this domain.”

Word-of-mouth has helped as students of all kinds learn the program’s benefits, which include many different job options.

Students work on a tiny house.

“Some go on to commercial construction where they might complete an apprenticeship,” said Berenyi, who is codirector of the program. “From there they can become journeyworkers and perhaps project managers or superintendents.”

Others go into residential construction and remodeling. There’s plenty of room to transition to estimating, sales or project management.

WIELDING HAMMERS, BUILDING JOB SKILLS

education opens up more opportunities.

But even students who decide not to pursue automotive work will take away practical skills they can use to maintain and repair their own cars.

“Really, this is fault-free trying something out,” said Charles. “You can find out if (automotive work) is right for you. If anyone is interested at all, they should go for it.” 

AUTOMOTIVE YOUTH EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS AT MADISON AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE Good if you: Love cars and like to work with your hands.

You’ll earn: Seven transferrable college credits while attending high school.

Length, if full-time: 1 school year while in high school, with the option to apply credits to a degree or diploma.

An increasing number of women are realizing the benefits of construction training When Allie Berenyi started teaching in the construction and remodeling program at Madison Area Technical College, she taught up to 16 students per year. Today it’s closer to 70 students, 40 of whom are on a path to a technical diploma. And more and more of them — one-third of this year’s daytime students — are women.

Berenyi said the fact that she’s one of two women faculty members is one reason: “Representation matters. It allows women to imagine themselves following a trades pathway.” She and colleague Sandy Thistle have a combined 60 years in the trade, each with complementary areas of expertise.

“I firmly believe we create access by reflecting those people in the community who don’t look like traditional construction workers,” said Thistle, echoing Berenyi’s observation. The two have worked hard to recruit under-

“Our students have successfully started their own businesses, repaired pianos, gone into commercial construction, become supervisors, become teachers, expanded existing businesses, gone into other trades, flipped houses, and found any number of other satisfying related work,” said Thistle.

One woman even worked at a national park to repair and rebuild historic buildings, Berenyi said. “Another grad spent several summers and a few winters doing carpentry and construction work in Antarctica and Greenland.”

Students learn safety procedures, how to use prints and specifications and all phases of home construction including estimating materials, understanding building codes and maintaining tools and equipment. There’s plenty of hands-on work framing floors, installing shingles, installing trim and much more.

CONSTRUCTION AND REMODELING PROGR AM AT MADISON AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE Good if you: Like to be active, accomplish something daily.

You’ll earn: A technical diploma.

Length, if full-time: Nine months.

“Each year the students build a tiny house right here on campus,” said Berenyi.

“It’s an excellent way for them to learn how all the elements of a residential building project fit together.” 

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CAREER PATHS PAVED BY AUTOMATION Educators respond as employers look for people to support their technology advancements

Western Tech’s new program to train people in this area — launched in the fall 2021— came about by keeping in close touch with industry leaders and their needs, said instructor Joseph Servi.

Western Tech partnered with companies like Kwik Trip and Ashley Furniture on the program’s design to ensure there is demand for the program. “These companies are continuing to advance and introduce more automation in their manufacturing process.” The goal, said Servi, is that Western Tech graduates help make that happen.

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Automation might sound like a way to eliminate jobs, but it’s exactly why Blackhawk Technical College launched its Manufacturing Engineering Technology program, which enrolled its first students in the fall 2021.

Students in Western Tech’s IoT program.

services. If you hear a device or a piece of equipment described as “smart,” it has something to do with IoT. This technology can be applied to almost any device you can think of in the home, community and workplace, from heating systems to agriculture, from your refrigerator to the bus you ride. It can also be applied to sophisticated manufacturing processes.

Western Tech is the only technical college in Wisconsin to offer a “The Internet of Things is becoming specific IoT program with a focus more and more of a common idea,” on manufacturing, said Servi. said Servi. “As we start connecting The program is designed the world to the internet within to give students lots of industry, commercial sectors, exposure to the technology and even our own homes, the they’ll encounter in the demand for people with a keen manufacturing environment understanding of how that’s even along with core knowledge possible will only grow.” in areas such as safety Having an interest circuits and in the internet automation systems and networking integration. “This INTERNET OF THINGS “is a must” for IoT gives our students INTEGR ATION SPECIALIST students, said Servi. more flexibility in PROGR AM AT WESTERN their fields,” he said.

Career opportunities TECHNICAL COLLEGE in addition to IoT IoT involves the Good if you: Have a curious and specialists include interaction of smart technical mind, are willing to work with network deployment objects — objects your hands. technician, with embedded You’ll earn: An associate of applied integration team sensors, onboard science degreeerrable college credits while engineer, field data processing attending high school. service technician capability and and electronics a means of Length, if full-time: Two years. technician.  communication — to provide automated

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MANUFACTURING’S Workplace changes are driving a demand for advanced manufacturing technicians

COURTESY WESTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Technical colleges across Wisconsin keep their fingers on the pulse of the state’s manufacturing economy to know what skills are in demand.

At Western Technical College, educators were seeing one item rising to the top of the list: the Internet of Things (IoT).

MEETING

Spring 2022

Automation and other changes in manufacturing have driven demand for advanced manufacturing technicians, said Bryan Coddington, engineering technology instructor at Blackhawk. “Embracing technologies like Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) will provide a path for manufacturers to be more efficient.”

Blackhawk’s new associate degree program aims to prepare students for those opportunities with a program that’s broad in scope, said Coddington. Students must take nine credits in the areas of automation,

SKILLS FOR THE MODERN

WORKPLACE

Preparing students to get the job done through problem-solving, teamwork and high-tech labs According to a 2021 survey from Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, a whopping 86% of manufacturers who responded said they’re struggling to hire workers.

Moraine Park Technical College wants to equip people to fill those jobs with its newly revamped Quality and Advanced Manufacturing Technology program.

Previously known as Process Engineering Technology, the program was changed in response to the evolving needs of Wisconsin manufacturers, said Tom Roehl, an instructor with the program. To reflect the current skill sets that are in demand, more automation components have been added to the program, among others.

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quality and design. If they choose all nine credits from the same focus area, they’ll receive an additional technical diploma in that discipline. “The additional credential will help students gain employment that fits their specific interests,” Coddington said.

“Students who graduate from this program will be in the position to obtain a great career with excellent opportunity for advancement,” said Coddington. Just some of the job possibilities: manufacturing engineer technician, automation engineer technician, quality control specialist, design engineer and production engineer.

The program takes a “multilayered

The goal: prepare students to work with automated systems to improve efficiency and quality in a manufacturing environment. To do this, students use high-tech labs to learn the latest technologies used in manufacturing. Problem solving and teamwork are stressed along with technological knowledge.

principles and experience automated manufacturing. “The ultimate goal being a lights-out manufacturing facility” that will give students even more hands-on experience.

approach” to learning, Students will learn the said Coddington, through fundamentals of materials innovative training selection, tooling, assembly methods, internship and automation, and how to opportunities, hands-on apply them to productionprojects and lab-based related activities. The program manufacturing will prepare them to assist opportunities. in the development of new Internships are products and the improvement required, preferably paid. of production The program is lining processes. up collaborations with “This program is industry partners to MANUFACTURING great for someone develop work-based ENGINEERING who likes to learn learning opportunities.

TECHNOLOGY PROGR AM how things work and AT BL ACKHAWK Also in the works: how to make things TECHNICAL COLLEGE Building an automated work better,” said manufacturing cell Good if you: Enjoy science, math, Coddington. “A big on campus that programming and working with your part of manufacturing engineering technology hands. engineering is students can use to improving the You’ll earn: An associate degree. design a product. In efficiency of a Length, if full-time: Two years. doing so, they’ll learn to process or product.” use Industry 4.0 and IIoT 

Tom Roehl (left) helps student.

control), design, and automation.”

Students are exposed to a variety of areas, and the ones that inspire them can guide their career paths, future training, and possible future education choices. Career The new program doesn’t hone opportunities include continuous in on one particular specialty, improvement as some programs technician, quality do. Students who assurance technician, get a Quality QUALIT Y AND ADVANCED CNC programmer and Advanced MANUFACTURING and robotics and Manufacturing TECHNOLOGY PROGR AM material-handling Technology degree AT MOR AINE PARK technician, to name will be prepared to TECHNICAL COLLEGE a few. Roehl says work in a number of Good if you: Enjoy technology and previous graduates manufacturing fields, don’t want to sit at a desk all day. have gone on to roles Roehl said. “This is as team leaders, and You’ll earn: An associate of applied achieved by providing plant managers, too. science degree. foundational skills in many areas including Students completing Length, if full-time: Two years. quality, CNC the degree will (computer numerical understand how to

COURTESY OF MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE

PHOTOS BY BRADLEY ZIEGLER

A student using a relay trainer.

It is used to practice wiring different motor control circuits.

apply lean manufacturing principles, develop a quality control plan, design a product or prototype, program automated machines and more.

“This program is great for someone who is interested in how things get made, and for someone that enjoys seeing the results of their work,” said Roehl.

Many students combine their studies with real-world experience by working full- or part-time in the industry while attending school. 

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“Sometimes we’ll see the most amazing sunrises or sunsets,” said Max Walski, who worked as a tower tech for almost nine years, sometimes climbing 600 feet. “Really, nothing can describe it.”

NO PLACE TO GO BUT UP! Keeping cellular networks on takes skills, training

Telecom tower technicians specialize in the installation, servicing, maintenance, and decommissioning of cell phone towers. They work with a variety of hardware, including coaxial Walski joined Northeast Wisconsin cables, antenna, radios, and Technical College (NWTC) to fiber-optic cables. help launch its new Not all towers are Telecommunication TELECOMMUNICATION 600 feet high – some Tower Technician TOWER TECHNICIAN might be on the top program, created in PROGR AM AT floor of a parking response to a need for NORTHEAST WISCONSIN garage – and there’s telecom technicians.

TECHNICAL COLLEGE plenty of ground-level He’s enthusiastic about work, too. passing his experience Good if you: Are hands-on, adventurous,

The chance to travel, a good salary and benefits, and lots of job opportunities are just some of the reasons to be a telecommunications tower technician. But the people behind a brand-new training program also talk about another benefit: the spectacular views.

along to students.

A HOME-GROWN IDEA

earn credits toward high school graduation while earning a one-year diesel maintenance technician technical diploma, said Gene Francisco, NWTC associate dean of trades and engineering. “They will actually walk across our stage before they walk across their own, which is kind of a neat thing.”

Schools team with college to cultivate a new crop of diesel technicians Where there are farms, there is machinery. And where there’s farm machinery, there are diesel engines that need maintenance and repair.

like to travel.

Walski credits the You’ll earn: A Tower Technician 1 occupation with Certificate. propelling his own Length, if full-time: Six months. success. In addition to those great views, he loved the camaraderie and the chance to be

With the technical diploma they can get jobs maintaining and That’s why three school districts repairing diesel equipment teamed up last year with Northeast “no matter what industry, Wisconsin Technical College whether it’s on a farm or in to extend the college’s diesel construction or for a fleet of technology program to high school trucks going on the juniors and seniors. road,” said Francisco.

It was a natural fit, DIESEL MAINTENANCE since NWTC already The credits can also AND TECHNOLOGY offered five diesel be applied toward PROGR AMS AT programs in response to the first year of study NORTHEAST WISCONSIN demand by the region’s in NWTC’s Diesel TECHNICAL COLLEGE agriculture, trucking and Truck or Diesel Heavy Good if you: Like using hands-on skills construction industries.

Equipment programs, to solve problems. where students Students in the You’ll earn: Either a technical diploma or can specialize their Luxemburg-Casco, associate degree. skill sets. Career Denmark and Kewaunee opportunities include school districts now Length, if full-time: One or two years. diesel and heavy have the opportunity to

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in the forefront of new telecom technology — not to mention the income opportunities.

“I bought a house before a lot of my buddies could even start thinking about those kinds of things.”

NWTC’s program is the only one like it in the Midwest, said Howard Herrild, associate dean of trades and engineering.

equipment technician, specialist technician and parts support manager.

Additional opportunities include industry-related service manager, supervisor, sales representative, business owner and educational trainer.

COURTESY NORTHEAST WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

COURTESY NORTHEAST WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Max Walski on the training tower that NWTC uses.

Classes are held during normal school hours at the Ahnapee Diesel Center, which opened in September 2021 in the former Casco High School building. It’s the first diesel-only high school education program in Wisconsin and one of roughly 20 such programs nationwide.

It has already made a difference for at least one farm family. After three months, one student was “already working on her parents’ diesel trucks for their farm,” Francisco said.

“She’s a junior and she’s really excited about continuing on with it.”

The center “replicates very much what you’re going to see in the real world in a shop,” said Francisco. “(Students) spend as little time as possible sitting in a lecture

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In the Technician 1 Certificate program, students learn safety and basic rigging; principles of electricity, fiber optics, wireless technology, and cell components; antenna basics; and spectrum management. NWTC has a practice tower and agreements to use training towers at local carriers. “So students are getting with this certificate real-word climbing experience,” Herrild said.

Someone earning the technician certificate could get started tower-climbing then return for more education in multiple telecom areas. NWTC’s new program offers other degrees and certificates that can lead to jobs in external or outside design and inspection, design and engineering, drafting and more. “There is a myriad of opportunities,” said Walski. 

RETOOLING FOR NEW DEMANDS Technicians who know both mechanical and electrical maintenance are in high demand Robin Reese often pulls up job websites to show his electromechanical maintenance students all the openings in the field. One day, a student approached him at the end of class with a startling admission.

Not only had the student applied to one of the jobs on the spot while Reese was conducting class, he had already scheduled an interview.

If hired, he’d get a $5,000 signing bonus.

COURTESY LAKESHORE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

“There’s high job demand and they’re great-paying jobs,” Herrild said. With expanding 5G networks and the federal government’s plan to invest in telecom infrastructure, the timing for the new program is just right.

“This really showed me that employers really are in need of people with these skills,” said Reese, an instructor at Lakeshore Technical College.

That demand has driven updates to Lakeshore Tech’s Electro-Mechanical Maintenance Technician program, recently retooled to reflect the increasing responsibilities of people going into the field.

Previously, Lakeshore had programs in Electro-Mechanical Automation — essentially, how to dive in electrically and reprogram an automated system — and Maintenance Technician — how to tear apart and repair mechanical equipment.

But these days, “maintenance technicians are being asked to know everything from simple lubrication and greasing to troubleshooting complex automated systems,” said instructor Jim Gruenke.

Congressman Mike Gallagher (center) visits the center.

seat. Most of their time is hands-on.” They work on equipment loaned by the district, the college and industry partners who understand how important it is to train more diesel technicians. “The field is just screaming for these folks.”

Industry partners also provide job opportunities for students, who are encouraged to work in the field while they’re enrolled. “Some of them are making pretty good money, too.” 

Short cutline?

options available — including additional education in Electrical Engineering Technology at UW-Green Bay or UWOshkosh. “Both colleges accept 60 of the 68 credits earned,” said Gruenke.

Gruenke, who coordinates the electromechanical program, has been hearing for eight years about a shortage of skilled maintenance personnel. “The effect of this skills gap has been increased pay for skilled trades, college re-imbursement, flexible hours to enable students to attend school, and promotion opportunities,” he said. And considering the cost of a technical college, “the earnings-to-cost ratio is better than any four-year degree.”

So, the Electro-Mechanical Maintenance program was created to train students both to tear apart and repair mechanical equipment and ELECTRO -MECHANICAL to troubleshoot MAINTENANCE electrical systems TECHNICIAN PROGR AM and programs.

AT L AKESHORE Students can still pursue the separate paths if they choose, or they can build on different areas of study over time.

Lakeshore’s program makes a variety of

Job titles in this field include electro-mechanical technicians, controls technicians, industrial machinery mechanics, machinery maintenance workers, millwrights and robotics technicians.

TECHNICAL COLLEGE Good if you: Like the challenge of repairing things, both mechanical and electrical.

You’ll earn: An associate degree.

Length, if full-time: Two years.

“’Now Hiring’ signs are everywhere,” said Reese. “Wages are increasing faster than I have ever seen in my past 25 years.“ And that student who applied while in Reese’s class? “Yes, he did get the job.” 

biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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S TUFF BLOWN UP

STUFF

blown up 6 $4

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VERONA AREA HIGH SCHOOL

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CONTRACTORS Construction projects are not the work of just one company. It takes companies with specialties in many different trades to make everything come together. Here are some of the companies that worked on Verona Area High School.

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With a footprint of approximately seven acres, Verona Area High School is one of the largest in the state. It includes academic spaces for 2,200 students with core spaces (library, cafeteria/ commons and athletic areas) that can accommodate more students in the future. The school also includes a field house, an aquatic center with two pools, a performing arts center, a greenhouse, and specialty classrooms and labs. The $149 million state-of-the art facility was completed in 2020. It sits on a 161-acre campus that includes a geothermal field, seven athletic fields, a cross-country running course in a 50-acre forest and the Military Ridge State Trail.

Spring 2022

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER: J.H. Findorff & Son Inc. | Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau Badger Swimpools, Prairie du Sac | Pool installation The Bruce Company, Middleton | Landscaping Eppstein Uhen Architects (EUA), Madison and Milwaukee | Architects Hooper/General Heating and Air Conditioning, DeForest | HVAC Hooper Corp., DeForest | Fire protection Hughes Flooring, Verona | Floor coverings IMEG Corp., Madison | Mechanical, electrical, plumbing engineer

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

OCCUPATIONS It takes people with many different specialties to bring a construction project like the Verona Area High School to completion. Here are some of the jobs involved in the project along with a brief description and average yearly salary for the position in Wisconsin according to O*Net:

CEMENT MASONS AND CONCRETE FINISHERS: Smooth and finish surfaces of poured concrete such as floors, walks, sidewalks, roads or curbs using a variety of hand and power tools. Align forms; patch voids; use saws to cut expansion joints. | $52,000 CONSTRUCTION PAINTERS: Paint walls, equipment, buildings, bridges and other structural surfaces using brushes, rollers, and spray guns. May remove old paint to prepare surface prior to painting. May mix colors or oils to obtain desired color or consistency. $45,910 DRYWALL AND CEILING TILE INSTALLERS: Apply plasterboard or other wallboard to ceilings or interior walls of buildings. Apply or mount acoustical tiles or blocks, strips or sheets of

shock-absorbing materials to ceilings and walls of buildings to reduce or reflect sound. | $42,690 ELECTRICIANS: Install, maintain and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.

May install or service streetlights, intercom systems or electrical control systems. | $64,220 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING AND REFRIGERATION MECHANICS AND INSTALLERS: Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces and heating stoves. | $53,190 LANDSCAPERS: Landscape or maintain grounds of property. Tasks may include sod laying, mowing, trimming, planting, watering, fertilizing, digging, raking, sprinkler installation, and installation of mortarless segmental concrete masonry wall units. | $33,060 OPERATORS: Operate power construction equipment such as motor graders, bulldozers,

ROOFERS: Cover roofs with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood or related materials.

May spray roofs, sidings and walls with material to bind, seal, insulate or soundproof sections of structures. | $46,000 SHEET METAL WORKERS: Fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes and furnace casings. Work may involve soldering and welding equipment to join sheet metal parts; or inspecting, assembling and smoothing seams and joints. | $59,470 STRUCTURAL IRON AND STEEL WORKERS: Raise, place and unite iron or steel girders, columns and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. May assemble prefabricated metal buildings. | $68,640

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J.H. Findorff & Son Inc., Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau | Concrete, steel, carpentry and drywall Lake City Glass, Madison | Windows Mashuda Contractors, Princeton | Earth moving and site preparation Monona Plumbing and Fire Protection, Madison | Plumbing Northern Metal & Roofing, West Bend | Roofing solutions Omni Glass and Paint, Oshkosh, Neenah, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Wausau | Metal panels Payne & Dolan, Waukesha | Asphalt PCI Austad, Madison | Acoustical ceiling services Pierce Engineers, Inc., Madison and Milwaukee | Structural engineering Wall Tech, DeForest | Painting Westphal & Company, Madison, Milwaukee, Janesville | Electrical

scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement. | $64,730

$5

CARPENTERS: Construct, erect, install or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. | $50,890

$45,9 10

Source: J.H. Findorff & Son Inc. biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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SUPPLY CHAIN

SUPPLY CHAIN Have you ever wondered how the products we use every day make it to our homes? Dozens of companies can contribute to making sure something is available for us to buy at a store or order for delivery online. These companies employ people in supply chain management jobs to make sure they have the right materials available at the right time to make the products that consumers want. They also need employees to figure out the best and most efficient way to ship those products to stores and consumers.

RAW MATERIALS

The products we use every day start as raw materials like metal, plastic resins, food commodities or fabrics.

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TRANSPORTATION PHASE

MANUFACTURING

TRANSPORTATION

Raw materials are transported to factories by a variety of methods, including boat, train, airplane and truck.

Most manufacturers don’t actually make the final product we see. Instead, many companies specialize in making components or parts that go into a final product.

Each method of transportation has benefits and drawbacks. An airplane may be faster, but costs more.

A train may be cheaper, but a truck can take the product to a specific destination.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

The need for people working in supply chain management is growing as companies look to save money moving products as efficiently as possible. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates jobs in this area will grow 8% by 2028 in Wisconsin with median salaries around $59,400. Four-year and two-year schools, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, UW-Oshkosh, Blackhawk Technical College and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, have programs in supply chain management.

ASSEMBLY & DISTRIBUTION All of the parts and components made by factories eventually come together for final assembly and distribution.

TRANSPORTATION

Many companies employ people to coordinate shipping and receiving products and materials. These people don’t work directly on products but are critical to keeping a business moving.

RETAIL & E-COMMERCE

CONSUMERS

Once products are finished, they are shipped to retailers or warehouses for distribution.

When consumers finally buy products, it is the end of a complex process that benefits from companies knowing what to make and how to ship it.

biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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COOL S TUFF

COOL STUFF designed, made and built in Wisconsin

The next time you’re driving down the highway or pass a business park full of what might seem like boring, rectangular buildings, take a few minutes to wonder what might be going on inside. Wisconsin is home to thousands of manufacturers that make a wide range of products, from outboard motors to chips and snacks to bathroom and kitchen products. For every one of those companies, there are also dozens or even hundreds of smaller suppliers that help make the final product.

These companies all need employees and offer a chance to build a great career. Take a look at the descriptions below to get a better idea of some local products and a glimpse at some recent job openings at these companies.

MEDICAL R ADIOISOTOPES NORTHSTAR MEDICAL R ADIOISOTOPES | BELOIT, MADISON: NorthStar uses non-uranium processes to make the medical radioisotope molybdenum-99, which turns into an imaging agent used in diagnostic procedures for heart disease and cancer.

JOBS AT NORTHSTAR MEDIC AL R ADIOISOTOPES MANAGER, ISOTOPES MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING: A hands-on position responsible for the transfer of new isotopes production processes and systems into manufacturing, as well as ongoing production support, validation and process improvement for existing isotopes processes. Bachelor’s in engineering with five years of experience.

PRODUCTION PLANNER: Responsible for overseeing and timing the manufacturing processes to support the company business plan. This role will also release and maintain work orders to support multi-location manufacturing, review safety stock and lead time, and prioritize work to meet deadlines.

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

KET TLE BR AND CHIPS Campbell Soup Company | Beloit: The Campbell Soup Company facility in Beloit makes Kettle Brand chips, an intensely flavored potato chip in varieties like jalapeno, honey dijon, Korean barbecue, New York cheddar, and sea salt and vinegar.

JOBS AT C AMPBELL SOUP COMPANY SALTY PROCESSING OPERATOR: Cooks raw product in fryers to create a finished product that meets quality standards. Responsibilities include consistently and efficiently following standard operating procedures and safety regulations and notifying supervisor of any quality assurance issues and malfunctioning equipment.

Starts at $22.50 per hour. High school diploma.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN: Responsible for maintaining equipment in safe, reliable and productive condition. Fabricates or modifies equipment, performs preventative maintenance, analyzes equipment issues, and understands and interprets technical documents. Night-shift pay starting at $32.95 per hour with $7,500 sign-on bonus. High school diploma with two years of experience, some college or technical training preferred.

ENGINES Fairbanks Morse Defense | Beloit: Fairbanks Morse makes mission-critical equipment for the military and commercial marine customers, including power systems and parts, along with aftermarket service.

JOBS AT FAIRBANKS MORSE DEFENSE DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS ANALYST: Manage day-to-day operations related to inventory management, logistics, fulfillment and invoice audit/reconciliations. Coordinate with demand and supply teams to maintain inventory levels and prevent out-of-stocks.

Support negotiation and manage relationships with logistics providers and freight forwarders. Measure and improve performance of logistics network. Bachelor’s in supply chain, logistics or business, and three to five years of experience.

3D DRAFTER – ANIMATOR: Will create and tune 3D models based on technical line drawings and AutoCAD and Solidworks files, prepare models for presentation in augmented reality, and accurately simulate the function of engine systems in animations. Candidates should be highly detail oriented, organized, and flexible, with ability to deliver information clearly and concisely. Bachelor’s degree in engineering, games design or technology, and a portfolio of animations.

HVAC PRODUC TS Trane Technologies | La Crosse: Trane Technologies makes heating, ventilation and air conditioning products under the Trane and Thermo King brands, including air conditioners, furnaces, humidifiers, thermostats and controls and much more.

JOBS AT TR ANE TECHNOLOGIES AUTOMATION ENGINEER CO-OP: Provides current college students in automation, electrical or general engineering with challenging assignments, leadership training, exposure to senior leaders and opportunities to network. Must be available full-time for six to eight consecutive months with some working knowledge of automation technology and drafting software. Minimum GPA of 3.0.

HVAC LABORATORY TECHNICIAN: Entry-level position includes testing in new product development and sustainability and quality improvement projects. Strong grasp of refrigeration-related thermodynamic principles and mechanical troubleshooting is preferred.

Job requires problem solving, troubleshooting and collaboration with other lab and engineering team members to ensure timely completion of projects. Associate degree in HVAC.

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COOL S TUFF CABINET DOORS AND COMPONENTS WalzCraft | La Crosse: WalzCraft is a maker of cabinet doors, drawers and other components in a variety of styles, techniques and materials. The company has more than 340,000 square feet of manufacturing space and around 270 employees.

JOBS AT WAL ZCR AF T ENTRY-LEVEL MANUFACTURING: Follows standard work methods and practices, checks product quality, works in fastpaced environment, attaches labels and tags to products, maintains clean and safe work area. Job requires attention to detail, teamwork, time management and willingness to learn.

Previous wood-working experience is helpful, but not necessary.

CUSTOMER SUPPORT SPECIALIST: Interacts directly with customers via phone and email. Needs to develop knowledge of all company products and specifications, handles customer questions about work-in-process, shipping, product changes and new product introductions. Job requires attention to detail; organizational, time management and problem-solving skills; and familiarity with data entry and computer systems.

BEEF JERK Y Jack Link’s | Minong, New Glarus: A family-owned company started in 1986, Jack Link’s makes a variety of snacks, including jerky, sticks and sausages from beef, pork and turkey in flavors including teriyaki, peppered, sweet, mild and spicy.

JOBS AT JACK LINK’S SMOKEHOUSE OPERATOR: Operates and monitors smokehouse to ensure product is cooked safely and efficiently. Needs understanding of how product thickness changes cooking procedures, monitors oven cycles, test products for PH, fat and moisture levels, completes documentation, and sprays products with applications per specifications.

High school diploma or GED required; one to two years of experience preferred.

FOOD SAFETY AND QUALITY AUDITOR: Completes documentation and makes sure product specifications, customer quality expectations and USDA regulations are met and achieved. Job includes monitoring room and product temperatures along with product quality and consistency. High school diploma or GED required, bachelor’s in science or technical/ business area or an associate degree in science or laboratory area preferred. One to two years of manufacturing or food experience required.

BATHROOM, KITCHEN, LIGHTING AND POWER PRODUC TS Kohler | Sheboygan County: Kohler Co. has a number of business lines, including bathtubs, toilets, sinks, faucets, light fixtures, generators and engines. The company has locations across Sheboygan County and all over the world. It also has a hospitality business.

JOBS AT KOHLER ELECTRICIAN: Performs installations and repairs on electrical systems in assigned department, builds and installs control panels, performs repairs and maintenance on switchgear up to 13,200 volts, stand-by generators, machinery, card access, security and fire alarm systems, and CNC and robotic equipment. Starting salary $86,831 with $3,000 sign-on bonus.

WELDER: Performs setup and all position on a diversified line of weldments and structures. Needs proficiency with a variety of welding equipment and ability to work from drawings, job layouts and sketches. Items welded include frames, bases, hoppers, covers, hoods, pipes, production service equipment and machinery. Starting salary is $58,570 with $3,000 sign-on bonus.

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A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

BEVER AGES Krier Foods/Jolly Good | Random Lake: Krier Foods provides blending, mixing, canning and fulfillment services for the beverage industry, including for alcoholic and non-alcoholic sodas, sparkling waters, energy drinks and coffee and tea drinks. The company also owns and makes the Jolly Good soda brand.

JOBS AT KRIER FOODS/JOLLY GOOD BLENDER: Responsible for supporting production lines by efficiently mixing finished products and maintaining the highest possible food safety, customer taste and appearance quality standards while performing all blend room operations. Required to taste some products, prepare samples and calibrate scales among other tasks.

Associate degree in science or chemistry preferred plus one to two years of previous manufacturing experience. $1,500 sign-on bonus and a $2.50 second-shift premium.

MACHINE OPERATOR: Responsible for operating equipment based on production schedule needs.

Rotation training program includes opportunity to learn all equipment including de-palletizer, filler, packager and more. Makes sure proper product is produced in correct amount with the right graphics, wrap and coding. Also monitors for equipment jams. Forklift experience a plus. High school diploma and six months of previous manufacturing experience preferred. $1,500 sign-on bonus and a $2.50 second-shift premium.

OUTBOARD MOTORS Mercury Marine | Fond du Lac, Oshkosh: Fond du Lac-based Mercury Marine makes a number of marine products, including outboard motors. Its motors run from 2.5 to 600 horsepower. Its Fond du Lac campus is more than 2.5 million square feet.

JOBS AT MERCURY MARINE METAL MELTER & HAULER: Responsible for operation of metal processing equipment, including melting furnaces, chip dryer, crusher and elevator. Loads equipment with ingot, scrap or other material.

Monitor equipment to ensure proper state of material, transport material from melting to holding furnaces, and participate in cleaning and maintenance of furnaces. Starting wage is $23.45 per hour.

HYDRAULIC TECHNICIAN: Supports new and current product development of marine hydraulic components and systems.

Conducts and monitors validation tests, performs detailed component inspections, writes test reports, and fabricates test fixtures and parts. Two-plus years of experience as technician in marine, automotive or relevant industry. Basic machining, welding and fabrication skills and boating experience preferred.

TOWERS AND HEAV Y FABRICATIONS Broadwind Heavy Fabrications | Manitowoc: Broadwind makes heavy fabrications, wind towers, crane components, frames, structures and gearboxes. The company won the “Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin” contest in 2021 for a 140-ton Navy crane, a 2.7 million-pound crane sent to New Hampshire on Memorial Day weekend by barge.

JOBS AT BROADWIND HE AV Y FABRIC ATIONS MACHINIST: Will operate a Boring bar machine to meet print/drawing specifications. Responsibilities include operating machines, calculating dimensions and tolerances using micrometers and calipers, and operating overhead crane, scissor lift and forklift equipment. Two-year degree in machining or equivalent experience required. Pay $25 to $33.42 per hour.

WELDER/FABRICATOR: Company hiring for welders with five-plus years of experience with ability to pass welding tests on 1-inch material. Experience consistently running at least 18-inch beads and doing multi-pass welding preferred, along with experience welding on large scale projects in flat, horizontal, vertical and overhead preferred. Up to $29 per hour.

biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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COURTESY OF C.D. SMITH

CAREERSPOTLIGHT

AUSTIN FERCH C ARPENTER APPRENTICE

AT FIRST, working as a laborer at C.D. Smith Construction right out of high school was just a way for Austin Ferch to make money. The work wasn’t glamorous.

COLTON ROESEL TOOL DESIGNER AND 3D PRINTING TECHNICIAN IT ALL STARTED with a high school mechanical design class. Colton Roesel had an affinity for computers and had long been fascinated with the way things are made, so it felt like a natural fit. Sure enough, Roesel went on to take advanced design classes, earn certifications, and earn college credits even before he graduated.

Roesel used those credits to earn a mechanical design degree at Moraine Park Technical College. Today, at 22, he works at Mercury Marine in Fond du Lac as a tool designer, partnering with manufacturing engineers to design the tooling they need for manufacturing operations. “Examples of this tooling would include decal templates, assembly and machining fixtures, lifting devices, paint maskings, and various other

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“My job was to watch and learn as I worked as a mason tender, mixing concrete, stacking brick, hauling, cleaning, sweeping and whatever else (I was) assigned,” Ferch said. “I performed many necessary and sometimes not-so-fun tasks.”

But as he observed the many skills that went into completing a project, the work took on more meaning.

“Construction was a good fit for me,” Ferch said. “I like the outdoors and working with my hands. I enjoy the feeling of accomplishing something daily.” He also enjoyed the camaraderie.

Motivated to work hard and learn, Ferch

was noticed by the project manager. C.D. Smith offered him an apprenticeship. Today, at 21, he is in his third year as a commercial carpenter apprentice and working on the Madison Yards apartment complex in Madison.

Organized through The North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 314, the four-year apprenticeship involves a combination of on-the-job training and classes at the union’s Carpenters Training Institute. “You basically get an education while making money,” Ferch said.

Ferch also enjoys the variety. “You can go from forming up concrete – concrete decks, concrete columns, driveways, sidewalks – to building walls – steel studs, drywall, wood,” he said. Or there can be finishing work such as painting cabinets, setting countertops and windows and installing trim.

Two recent assignments for Ferch were remodeling a cheese factory and building a connecting lobby and elevator shaft for two structures. “I have worked on multifamily housing units, manufacturing facilities,

hand tools to assist in the machining and assembly operations here at Mercury,” Roesel said. He also runs the plant’s 3D printing operations.

“The thing that I like about design is seeing an idea come to fruition,” Roesel said. “I put my old fascination to work when I design a tool that I get to see in use on the factory floor every day.” He likes the variety, too. “A typical design usually takes anywhere from one day to two weeks, depending on the complexity of the job, and then I am moving on to the next design.

That helps keep every day fresh and interesting,” he said.

Roesel is hoping to eventually return to school for a degree in engineering or

business, then work his way into management.

Anyone interested in tool designing should have a good understanding of machining/building processes, says Roesel. They also need the ability to think ahead to the next TOOL DESIGNER AND step after designing — 3D PRINTING “how is the toolmaker TECHNICIAN going to machine this?”

GREAT FOR SOMEONE WHO: Likes the latest technologies and learning something new every day.

KEY SKILL: Being organized.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS: Take advantage of every chance to learn different CAD software and to learn more about your software of choice.

Advice for someone who might want to pursue an occupation like his? “Never stop learning,” Roesel said, whether on the job or at your local technical college.

“Take advantage of every chance to learn different CAD software, and also to learn more about your software of choice.” 

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

WHO: Likes to work with their hands and feel an accomplishment.

Ferch likes the many different KEY SKILL: A good work directions he ethic. Most skills can be can go when learned over time. his training TIPS FOR SUCCESS: Show is complete, up 15, 20 minutes early. anywhere Always try to stay busy. from Communicate. foreman to superintendent to starting his own company. The Training Institute offers ongoing educational opportunities for job growth. “You can always be advancing your knowledge in the field,” he said.

“My advice to someone interested in the construction trades is to be open to what is available,” Ferch said. “There are many aspects and careers to consider. Get on a job site and experience it.” 

COURTESY NORTHEAST WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

elementary schools and mixeduse and C ARPENTER APPRENTICE industrial ventures,” he said.

GREAT FOR SOMEONE

HANNA GILBERTSON QUALIT Y TECHNICIAN WHEN HANNA GILBERTSON got a machine shop job, she was in high school and figured it would be a decent summer gig. She started at the bottom of the ladder as a polisher.

“I stuck with it,” she said. “Then once I got the opportunity to start running the machines I thought, ‘This is really cool.’”

The CNC machines fascinated her, and so did the opportunity to keep learning. Gilbertson stayed for seven years, continuously being trained. When she learned she could get a CNC technician diploma at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, her employer and scholarships defrayed all the expenses.

COURTESY COLTON ROESEL

One opportunity led to another, and Gilbertson is now a quality technician at Carlson Tool & Manufacturing Corp. in Cedarburg.

CNC is short for computer numerical control. “A CNC machine reads numbers made by the programmer and does exactly what you tell it to,” Gilbertson said. “It is a key part in making products we use in everyday life. Almost every product we use started in a machine shop somewhere, and needed a group effort from the programmer, machinist, and many

others to produce it.”

As a quality technician, she now works on coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), which are like CNCs but used for inspection. It’s essentially desk work, using a computer to program parts, make sure they’re accurate and help ensure that tool makers have the right specifications to create injection molds. Her goal is to one day be a quality manager.

Gilbertson thinks more people — including women — should consider work like hers. She has plenty of benefits to pitch: job security (there’s high demand and plenty of openings), decent hours (no weekends), good benefits (health insurance and paid vacation among others) and the chance to earn overtime pay. She stresses the many opportunities for training and growth QUALIT Y TECHNICIAN and the varied paths to take. “You have quality, GREAT FOR SOMEONE you have shipping/reWHO: Loves working with ceiving, planning, purnumbers. chasing, programming, A KEY SKILL FOR THIS engineering – there’s JOB: Ability to work with just so many directions all sorts of people and that you can go.” keep an open mind.

TIP FOR SUCCESS: Find machine shops that offer apprenticeships.

BIGGEST “AHA MOMENT”: “When I found a career, not just a job. I can see myself here long term and for the first time I can answer those ‘Where do you see yourself’ questions.”

Gilbertson urges women who are curious, “Just go for it.

Don’t be afraid. I have never been criticized or looked down upon.

If anything, I’ve been praised for stepping outside of my comfort zone and getting the job done.” 

biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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IAN BOWERS PROJEC T ENGINEER

IAN BOWERS STARTED his career with a commitment to learn: online classes, library books, apprenticeships, work experience, college credits where he could pick them up — even taking instruction manuals home to study. “I just took advantage of whatever I could,” he said.

COURTESY OF IAN BOWERS

C AREER SPOTLIGHT

AS A KID, Christine Lodes loved bringing lunch to her dad at the machine shop where he worked. She couldn’t wait to see the machines — “how they worked and all the different things they could create and produce.” She knew she’d want to do the same thing someday.

Ian with his son at a Findorff job site.

His plan: break into the construction business.

When Bowers heard about a pilot program in construction and remodeling at Madison Area Technical College, he made a tough but pivotal decision. It meant giving up a paid job. But the 4.5-month program taught him the essentials — tools, measuring, safety and more — and introduced him to professionals willing to give him advice. “It provided invaluable support and connections,” he said.

The Madison College program was designed for people who, like Bowers, needed a second chance after making mistakes that led to incarceration. Thanks to the professional contacts he made there, he landed a job at construction firm Findorff, starting out as an apprentice carpenter.

From that start, he worked his way up to journeyman carpenter and field engineer and is now a project engineer. His goal is to be a project manager. “It’s been an awesome journey,” said Bowers, 34. “I’ve had some challenges in my life and I was able to overcome them, put mistakes behind me. Findorff sees my value today, they don’t bring up my past.”

As a project engineer, his duties include coordinating timelines and schedules, bid analysis, permit processing, and anticipating risks and

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costs related to technical aspects of a project.

Bowers continues to take advantage of any training opportunity he can get. That means on-the-job experience, observing other professionals and asking lots of questions. He’s thankful for the internal training sessions Findorff has offered on topics ranging from scheduling software to handling contracts to managing change.

“It was like a slow climb in the beginning,” he said, but he stuck it out thanks to a strong work ethic, a passion for learning, and the company’s support. Chances to interview for better positions encouraged him along the way.

PROJEC T ENGINEER “One opportunity came up as I was 60 feet up in a GREAT FOR SOMEONE boom lift. My phone rang.

WHO: Likes to find creative ‘We got an opportunity, solutions to problems, want to interview for it?’” work with people and build relationships.

Bowers’ most recent job site was the CUNA Mutual KEY SKILLS: project in Madison. Other Communication and active listening skills. projects he’s been a part of include the Bell TIP FOR SUCCESS:“Find Laboratories offices in something you like and Windsor, an addition to build on it. Ask questions about it and get more DeForest High School and involved in it. Eventually the SHINE Medical Techdoors will open for you.” nologies headquarters in Janesville.

BIGGEST “AHA MOMENT”: Understanding the magnitude of the decisions that project managers make behind the scenes.

“I’m getting to be part of these big, beautiful projects. It’s awesome.” 

Lodes started making that happen in high school. She joined a Lakeshore Technical College Youth Apprenticeship program that allowed her to take classes there while attending high school. She also worked a parttime job that exposed her to many different aspects of manufacturing.

From there, Lodes landed other jobs in maintenance while collecting two associate degrees and one technical diploma at Lakeshore. Today, at 22, she’s working around machines of all kinds as a maintenance technician

BRIAN ELL BUSINESS OWNER, CNC MACHINIST / PROGR AMMER BRIAN ELL ATTENDED a private high school that offered barely any courses in the trades. While his classmates were prepping for four-year college degrees, he wasn’t feeling it. To him, that just meant lots of loans and a career he didn’t want.

“I was always a tinkerer, working on cars or building things or just learning how things work,” Ell said. So, after high school he decided to take classes at Moraine Park Technical College. That’s when it clicked: He could learn cool skills, make cool things, and have a good income too? “Well why wouldn’t I?” he said.

Ell went from being a so-so student to a motivated learner who kept asking

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

CHRISTINE LODES MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Lodes’ duties at Sargento include mechanical, electrical and automation work. “I take calls when a line is down to ensure our machines are ready to run at the start of the work week,” she said.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN GREAT FOR SOMEONE WHO: Likes to be challenged daily.

KEY SKILL: Time management, ability to work well with a team, and a willingness to constantly learn.

BEST THING ABOUT THE JOB: “I am always learning something new!”

She enjoys the variety of her job.

“Every day is different (and) always changing so I never get bored!” she said. “One day, I might be replacing a chain on a belt and the next day I could be making sure a robot is operating properly.”

making the cheese, cutting the cheese, packaging the cheese, boxing and moving the boxes of the cheese. It’s kind of insane all the different things I’m able to work on every day.”

Maintenance technicians are critical to any manufacturing operation because they help keep machines running constantly. “A lot of people think, oh, you’re in maintenance. So, you clean toilets?

No, I don’t do anything with toilets,” Lodes said, laughing. “I’m working on the machines that are

Lodes works with three other female maintenance technicians and would love to see more women pursuing this career. She credits Sargento for its commitment to a workplace that welcomes all kinds of people. “They don’t care who you are or what gender you are or color you are, as long as you’re willing to learn,” she said. 

for more projects. That drive persisted as he became an experienced CNC machinist/programmer and launched his own business.

COURTESY OF MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE

PHOTO COURTESY SARGENTO FOODS

at Sargento Foods in Plymouth, and she loves her work. “I feel as though I am always learning something new,” she said.

Along the way, Ell was dabbling in road racing and purchased a small Formula Ford race car (it was in boxes and he reassembled it). He started noticing that other road racers used a lot of self-fabricated parts that were hard to replace.

“I was thinking, man, I know how to make things.

I have a lot of friends who need parts made,” he said.

At Moraine Park, Ell learned the basics of computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine programming, blueprint reading, two and three-dimensional computer-aidBUSINESS OWNER, CNC ed machining, computer aided MACHINIST / PROGR AMMER design (CAD) and other skills he’d need to be a CNC machinist. After GREAT FOR SOMEONE WHO: Likes to build things and likes earning a technical technology. diploma in CNC/Tool and Die TechnoloKEY SKILL: The ability to visualize gies, he landed his a creative solution and think many steps in advance. first job in a tool and die shop and kept TIP FOR SUCCESS: Take looking for ways to initiative – reach out to machine grow his skills. manufacturers, ask questions, “The thing I’ve learned with this trade is the more that you can continually keep learning the easier your job gets, and it just opens up more doors,” Ell said.

track down answers. “Doing that makes you really, really valuable.”

BEST THING ABOUT THE JOB: The creativity and satisfaction of solving a problem. “I like going from a concept to then having something in my hands.”

Ell’s entrepreneurial instincts kicked in. He struck a deal to rent a corner of a machine shop and started making custom parts for race cars. As word spread, he kept getting more work. “It just kind of kept snowballing and snowballing,” he said. Today Ell, 32, owns Advanced Speed Components.

What started as a hobby, then a side job, became a full-time occupation as Ell learned more skills and expanded to other markets. “I’ve had to turn away business because the demand is so high,” he said.

Ell encourages anyone with curiosity about the field to give it a try. “The demand out there is crazy,” he said. 

biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

23

C AREER SPOTLIGHT

TIPS FROM THE WORKPLACE WHAT’S YOUR BEST TIP FOR ACING A JOB INTERVIEW?

WHAT’S THE BEST ON -THE-JOB ADVICE YOU’VE GOT TEN FROM A BOSS OR MENTOR?

“Don’t be too nervous. Yes, you are there for them to interview you, but you are also there to interview them (about whether) you would like to be employed by them.”

“Do not stress yourself out about it. Practice, be honest, and be yourself!”

“Show up ready to work every day with a smile on your face.”

— Colton Roesel, tool designer and 3D printing technician

“Take a moment to think about the interview question you were asked — don’t just blurt out a random answer, think of an answer that will best represent your skills.”

“Ask inquiring questions — like what’s the most challenging part of the job? What did you enjoy most about your career journey? Try to have an open discussion.

Studying up about the job you’re interviewing for is important, too.”

— Ian Bowers, project engineer

— Hanna Gilbertson, quality technician

— Christine Lodes, maintenance technician

“Just be confident in your abilities. Be up-front and honest about what you’ve done and what you can do.”

— Austin Ferch, carpenter apprentice

“The same as I give to others: Never stop learning.”

— Colton Roesel, tool designer and 3D printing technician

“To always try new things and to take risks. When I decided to leave my first job of almost seven years, my boss wished me well and told me I was doing the right thing by getting out there and exploring.”

— Hanna Gilbertson, quality technician

— Brian Ell, CNC machinist/programmer

“If you’re stuck on an issue and just can’t seem to find a resolution, take a walk and come back. A fresh look at a problem can tend to bring you to a quick resolution.”

— Christine Lodes, maintenance technician

“Prioritize. You’re always gonna have a plateful. Deal with what’s hot and burning the most first.”

— Ian Bowers, project engineer

“Don’t dwell on your mistake.

Just learn from it, figure out what you did wrong, and move forward.”

— Brian Ell, CNC machinist/programmer

DO YOU ALREADY HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO

EARN AND LEARN? GPS Education Partners helps high school juniors and seniors jump start a career in manufacturing and the trades before graduating high school!

Learn skills through an apprenticeship program to become career or college ready!

Meets challenges head-on

Watches for opportunities

Puts heart into it

Hungry for success

GET MORE INFO! GPSEd.org/ihaveit

Hands-on learner

Gets a leg up

Stands on own two feet

24

STUFF WI

|

Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

NOW HIRING BACKGROUND Number of employees: 500 Year established: 1953 President: Mark Pedersen

LOCATIONS 804 Pecor St Oconto, WI 54153 700 E. Glenbrook Dr Pulaski, WI 54162

BENEFITS Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Vacation PTO Flexible Workplace FSA Wellness Program

CONNECT Phone: (800) 743-3478 Website: cruisersyachts.com

ABOUT US Founded in 1953, Cruisers Yachts leads the global marketplace in our segment, building luxury, sport and cruising yachts ranging from 34 to 60 feet in length. With two plant locations in Oconto and Pulaski, over 500 employees work to produce hand-crafted, luxury pleasure yachts. These yachts are then shipped to dealerships to be sold across the world. It is our collaborative work environment amongst our dedicated employees that displays our Cruisers Yachts pride.

PRODUCTS WE MAKE As one of the top producers of yachts in the 34 to 60 foot range, we take pride in building hand-crafted, quality products.

- The Cantius series provide luxurious amenities while aboard for extended weekend trips - The GLS series yachts provide powerful performance without sacrificing luxury for the family day boater

WHY WORK HERE At Cruisers Yachts we believe people are the the most important asset. It’s their dedication and commitment that provide the innovative solutions, which will build our luxury brand of yachts into the future. For more information about Cruisers Yachts, find us on the web at cruisersyachts.com.

What are you waiting for?

Barb Mueller VP of Human Resource Office: 920-835-6815 bmueller@kcsintl.com

NOW HIRING • Assembly • Lamination • Mold Repair

• Tooling • Major Repair • Wood Room

For more information on job opportunities, please visit

CRUISERSYACHTS.COM/CAREERS

• Stock Room • Maintenance • Material Handlers

• Mill Room • Upholstery

COS T OF LIVING

the

Co$t of Living Basic Budgeting:

How much do I need to make to live like I want?

LIKE GOVERNMENTS AND BUSINESSES, IT IS IMPORTANT FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES TO HAVE A BUDGET SO THEY UNDERSTAND HOW MUCH MONEY THEY MAKE AND SPEND EACH MONTH. FORTUNATELY, APPS LIKE MINT CAN HELP YOU TRACK YOUR BUDGET, BUT IT IS ALSO GOOD TO KNOW WHERE YOUR MONEY IS GOING WITHOUT THE HELP OF TECHNOLOGY. What makes up your budget?

WHERE YOU LIVE MATTERS: The cost of many common items in your budget will be different depending on where you live. The Economic Policy Institute estimates housing for one person in the Madison area is around $769 per month while the Janesville-Beloit area costs $596. Prices are even higher in other cities like Chicago ($879) or San Francisco ($2,014). Here’s a look at how some common costs compare across metro areas.

JANESVILLEBELOIT

MADISON

GREEN BAY

MILWAUKEE

CHICAGO

SAN FRANCISCO

AUSTIN

DENVER

Housing

$596

$796

$531

$611

$879

$2,014

$860

$938

Food

$230

$266

$248

$245

$256

$346

$255

$276

Transportation

$857

$823

$825

$733

$720

$786

$841

$803

Health Care

$282

$295

$402

$394

$344

$387

$318

$319

Other Necessities

$333

$418

$314

$346

$358

$952

$450

$491

Taxes

$450

$537

$465

$466

$560

$1,277

$474

$604

Monthly

$2,755

$3,108

$2,785

$2,795

$3,217

$5,762

$3,198

$3,431

Annual

$33,063

$37,291

$33,420

$33,540

$38,604

$69,144

$38,376

$41,172

STUFF WI

What changes my budget?

The amount of money you spend each month on some things, like rent, may not change very much.

Other costs may go up and down depending on your activities. For example, utilities charge you based on how much natural gas or electricity you use, so if you have to heat or cool your house a lot, your costs may go up if those items are not included in your rent. The amount you spend on food may also change if you eat at restaurants a lot since they are generally more expensive than cooking at home.

How do I save money?

Source: Economic Policy Institute budget calculator

26

At its heart, a budget is about how much you make and how much you spend. Every month, there are certain costs you can plan for like rent, utilities, groceries and food, and transportation costs like gas for your car.

There are also unexpected costs like medical bills if you get hurt or car repairs if you’re in an accident. You should plan some extra cushion in your budget to account for these, to save for bigger purchases in the future or to pay for things you want to do like going to a Brewers game or attending a concert. It may seem like it is a long way off, but you should also plan to set some money aside for your retirement.

|

Spring 2022

If you want to save money for bigger purchases like a house, a new car or a nice vacation you will need to spend less than you make each month. There are lots of ways to save money on regular costs including splitting housing with roommates, buying generic products instead of name brands, buying in bulk, not using credit cards or at least making sure you pay off your balance every month to avoid interest costs.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

What d o you do for f un?

EXTR A CASH SAVE UP FOR THESE SPECIAL TIMES AND TREATS As you put together your budget, here are some other things to consider: » What are your long-term financial goals? Do you want to buy a house? A new car?

» How could you increase the amount you make each month? » How could you cut costs or find cheaper alternatives?

» What do you need to have versus what do you just want to have?

WISCONSIN STATE PARKS

$

ANNUAL VEHICLE STICKER

699 to $ 1,099 $

DAILY

$

8

28

DEVIL’S LAKE DAILY

PENINSULA & WILLOW RIVER DAILY

iPHONE 13

13 $ 10

$

CASCADE MOUNTAIN PACKERS T-SHIRT PACKERS JERSEY

25 $ 100 - $ 370 $

200 $ 2,300

32-INCH TCL ROKU TV 65-INCH LG G1 OLED TV

$

SPOTIFY

SERIAL 1 MOSH/CTY EBIKE

$

3,799

NETFLIX

NIGHT TICKET

$

40

PLATINUM SEASON PASS

$

650

9.99 $ 9.99 - $19.99 $ 13.99 - $19.99 $

DISNEY+ BUNDLE

/ MONTH

/ MONTH

/ MONTH

biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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HOTjobsNOW FINDING A JOB gets a lot easier when the job you want is one that employers are looking to fill. Here are some of the manufacturing, construction and maintenance jobs expected to grow the most by 2028 along with descriptions of the work involved.

Do you see a career that would be exciting to you?

EDUCATION TYPICALLY REQUIRED

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING NEEDED

No formal educational credential

—

High school diploma or equivalent



Postsecondary non-degree award or some college, no degree

None



Short-term





Moderate



Associate degree



Long-term



Bachelor's degree



Apprenticeship



% PROJECTED GROWTH BY 2028

TYPICAL EDUCATION NEEDED

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING NEEDED

ANNUAL MEDIAN

TILE SETTERS: Applies hard tile, stone and other materials to walls, floors, ceilings, countertops and decks.

20.6

—



$43,820

FLOOR LAYERS: Applies shock-absorbing, sound-deadening or decorative coverings to floors

16.8

—



$65,960

PIPELAYERS: Lays pipe for sewers, drains and watermains

14.7

—



$66,120

CARPENTER HELPERS: Helps carpenters by using, supplying or holding matierals or tools

14.5

—



$31,200

PLUMBING, PIPEFITTING HELPERS: Helps with tasks requiring less skill, also cleans work area and equipment

14.0





$35,590

OPERATING ENGINEERS: Operates graders, bulldozers, tractors and front-end loaders for construction tasks

13.3





$63,320

CONSTRUCTION LABORERS: Performs tasks involving physical labor on job sites

12.8

—



$40,960

TELECOMM LINE INSTALLERS AND REPAIRERS: Intalls and repairs telecommunication cables, including fiber optics

12.3





$50,300

PLUMBERS, PIPEFITTERS, AND STEAMFITTERS: Installs pipe systems to carry water, steam, air, liquds or gases.

12.1





$67,830

PAVING EQUIPMENT OPERATORS: Operates equipment for applying concrete and asphalt to road beds, parking lots and other sites.

11.4





$41,010

CNC TOOL PROGRAMMERS: Develops programs to control and operate automatic machine tools

24.8





$49,810

MEDICAL APPLIANCE TECHNICIANS: Constructs and repairs medical supportive devices like braces, prosthetics and arch supports

22.1





$35,360

MOLDERS (EXCEPT METAL AND PLASTIC): Molds and shapes food, figurine, tile, pipe or candle products from clay, glass, plaster and concrete

11.0





$32,820

PRODUCTION HELPERS: Loads and unloads machines and conveyors, operates some machinery

9.1





$31,470

SEPARATING, FILTERING, CLARIFYING, PRECIPITATING, AND STILL MACHINE SETTERS, OPERATORS, AND TENDERS: Operates continuous flow or vat-type equipment with attention to materials, temperature, pressure and other conditions

9.0





$39,530

MULTIPLE MACHINE TOOL OPERATORS: Operates more than one cutting or forming machine or robot

8.3





$36,040

CHEMICAL EQUIPMENT OPERATORS: Operates equipment to control chemical changes or reactions for industrial and consumer products

8.3





$43,390

FURNACE/KILN/OVEN OPERATORS: Operates heating equipment for annealing glass, drying lumber, curing rubber, removing moisture from materials and boiling soap

7.9





$35,430

EXTRUDING, PRESSING, MACHINE OPERATORS: Operates equipment to make glassware, food, rubber, soap, brick, tile or cosmetic products.

7.6





$36,280

PACKAGING/FILLING MACHINE OPERATORS: Operates equipment to prep industrial or consumer products for storage or shipment

6.4





$33,610

WELDERS: Joins metal pieces, including aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron and other alloys

6.2





$42,530

OCCUPATION CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE JOBS

PRODUCTION JOBS

SOURCE: wisconomy.com

28

STUFF WI

|

Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

CONTENTS - PROFILES

A GUIDE TO

DESIGNED, MADE AND BUILT IN WISCONSIN SPRING 2022

SEE THE AREA COMPANIES WITH OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU!

A L L I A N C E L AU N D R Y S YS T EM S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

30

FA I T H T EC H N O LO GI E S I N CO R P O R AT ED ( F T I ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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FI N D O R FF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34

F OSB ER A M ER I C A

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

36

M EN A SH A CO R P O R AT I O N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

38

M I C H EL S CO R P O R AT I O N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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M I L L ER EL EC T R I C M F G. L LC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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O P T I M A M AC H I N ER Y CO R P O R AT I O N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44

WA L B EC GR O U P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46





INTERESTED IN MORE STUFF? > GO TO S T U FF. B I Z T I M E S .CO M A N D F O R A FR EE M O N T H LY S T U FF EM A I L N E W SL E T T ER – S T U FF. B I Z T I M E S .CO M / E M A I L > S T U FF S O U T H E A S T ER N W IS CO NSI N – FA L L 2 0 2 2 > S T U FF W IS CO NSI N – SPR I N G 2 0 2 3 To par tic ipate: 414 -336 -7112 | ad ver tise@biz times.com 

Denotes GPSEd business partners biztimes.com/stuffwi | S T U F F W I

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119 Shepard Street Ripon, WI 54971 (920) 748-3121 alliancelaundry.com

WHO WE ARE

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT ALLIANCE Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account

At Alliance Laundry Systems, our family of brands offers solutions to customers worldwide through the delivery of premium laundry products and services. Our focus of putting customers first drives our commercial quality product development strategy, marketing programs, and technical support. Whether the buyer is a large-scale hotel with an on-premises laundry, laundromat owner, or family in need of a washer and dryer for their residence, we’re dedicated to providing the most efficient, high quality solution.

Life Insurance

STUFF WE MAKE

Disability Insurance

Alliance Laundry Systems manufactures products under the well known brand names of Speed Queen®, UniMac®, Primus®, Huebsch®, and IPSO®.

401(k) Vacation (paid time off) Dependent Care Reimbursement Wellness Program

Our specialties are: Coin laundries, Multi-housing laundries, On-premises and institutional laundries, and Consumer residences

WORK HERE TODAY!

Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internship

INFO

As the global leader, we are constantly growing our brands, developing industry-leading products, and expanding our manufacturing capacity. We are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. We offer a rewarding work environment, competitive salaries and attractive benefits.

Employees: 3,848 Year founded: 1908 CEO: Mike Shoeb

facebook.com/alliancelaundrysystems linkedin.com/company/ alliance-laundry-systems/mycompany youtube.com/user/alliancels1

30

STUFF WI

|

Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

SEE YOURSELF @ ALLIANCE

ENGINEER

$50,000 starter

$80,000 experienced

$125,000+ expert JAKE HELD | QUALITY ENGINEER

ISAAC WHITROCK | YOUTH APPRENTICE

YEARS AT ALLIANCE: 9

YEARS AT ALLIANCE: 7 months

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Bachelors Degree in Business Administration with emphasis in Supply Chain

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Youth apprenticeships for high school juniors and seniors

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

As a Quality Engineer, I am involved with every facet of the production process. I engage with multiple levels of the organization, including team members that make the product.

I work with engineers and quality team members to improve quality and manufacturing processes and standards.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

In college, I had the opportunity to complete several internships at Alliance. During my last internships, I was able to shadow an Engineer and learn how the product was manufactured and what all was involved with producing the final product.

What is the best part about your job?

I face a different challenge everyday. I enjoy working on different issues and working with all levels to find solutions to problems.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Going into the future, I want to look for a job that not only has the engineering aspect of problem-solving and design but also being able to work directly face to face with people.

What is the best part about your job?

YA is a great experience. I get to share my knowledge I learned in school in a real work environment. My input is valued in discussions when working on an engineering problem at Alliance Laundry Systems.

FUN STUFF

OPERATIONS LEADER

ENGINEERING LEADER

ENGINEER

ENGINEERING INTERN

YOUTH APPRENTICE

In addition to the great benefits we offer, we invest in our employees!

• • • •

Team Lunches Annual Company Events Employee Referral Bonuses Continuing Education Assistance

• • • •

Training and Development Opportunities Employee Pricing for Washers and Dryers Wellness Program Fitness Center

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

YOUTH APPRENTICES

WELDERS

PRODUCTION SUPERVISORS

INTERNS

MAINTENANCE

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE REPRESENTATIVES

PRODUCTION TEAM MEMBERS

PROCESS ENGINEERS

CHRISTINA STELTER TALENT ACQUISITION LEADER

(920) 748-4223 CHRISTINA.STELTER@ALLIANCELS.COM

BUYERS stuff.biztimes.com | S T U F F W I

31

201 Main Street Menasha, WI 54952 1-800-274-2345 faithtechinc.com

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT FTI Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Bonuses

WHO WE ARE

STUFF WE MAKE

Faith Technologies Incorporated (FTI) is comprised of construction, engineering, manufacturing and renewable energy experts. We create success for our partners and team members through innovation and expertise, rethinking how energy is designed, applied and consumed, providing solutions that go beyond the ideas of today. With expertise across all our divisions – Faith Technologies®, EnTech Solutions™ and Excellerate® – we are one connected company, bringing our partners’ visions to life to ensure a sustainable future.

As a national leader in engineering, construction, manufacturing and clean energy, we offer extensive services across three innovative divisions. We are leaders in electrical contracting, provide innovative manufactured solutions and develop advanced renewable and sustainable energy solutions. Our Faith Technologies work encompasses electrical design/engineering, installation and operation/ optimization. Our Excellerate work includes large-scale, modular electrical data centers. Our renewable energy division, EnTech Solutions, provides distributed energy solutions, eMobility charging infrastructure and renewable natural gas solutions.

WORK HERE TODAY!

Vacation (paid time off) Sick (paid time) Dependent Care Reimbursement Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internships

INFO

As a merit organization, we pride ourselves on the compensation, incentives and benefits we offer through our Total Rewards Program, including competitive base pay, incentive and recognition programs, comprehensive healthcare benefits, retirement savings, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, an award-winning wellness program, and more. In addition, our Culture of Care nurtures a workplace that is respectful, inclusive, and caring, and encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work.

Our newly enhanced paid-time-off (PTO) benefits are best-inclass throughout our industry. We also offer two extra hours per month of paid Time to Recharge, encouraging employees to take time away from work for themselves to focus on their wellbeing – mind, body, and soul.

Employees: 2,561 Year founded: 1972 CEO: Mike Jansen

With our ground-up growth strategy, 32% of our team members were promoted within the last year.

facebook.com/faithtechinc linkedin.com/company/72322821 @FaithTechInc youtube.com/channel/ UCMNYDudYHR72X-PVKe5QJ3w 32

STUFF WI

|

Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMEST MEDIA

SEE YOURSELF @ FTI

$45,000 starter

$55,000 BROOKE CHOWN

LEASED LABOR TALENT PARTNER AGE: 28 | YEARS AT FTI: 5 EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Completed FTI’s Electrical Apprenticeship Program

experienced

$65,000 expert

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

As an interim journeyman, I was bending and installing conduit, pulling wire, terminating panels, hanging light fixtures, reading blueprints, building strut racks, installing disconnects, assembling and installing wire way, troubleshooting and problem solving.

In my current role as leased labor talent partner, I coordinate staffing for field and office positions with temporary employees by con-ducting interviews, building relationships with other FTI employees as well as contracted employ-ees/agencies, data tracking and attending career fairs.

FOREMAN UP THROUGH CEO

UNLIMITED

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started with FTI in June 2017 as a helper and began the apprenticeship program in October 2017, working in the field as an apprentice for 4 years. I completed the apprenticeship program in March of 2021 and became an interim journeyman and still plan to get my journeyman license. In January 2022 I accepted a new role as a leased labor talent partner and am looking forward to applying my field experience and advancing my career in an office setting.

APPRENTICE LEVEL 4

$26 - $28/HR

APPRENTICE LEVEL 3

Building relationships with co-workers, opportunity to work remotely, getting to learn more about the company and about other roles across the organization.

FUN STUFF

$23 - $26/HR

APPRENTICE LEVEL 2

$20 - $22/HR

APPRENTICE LEVEL 1

$17.30 - $20/HR

FTI supports numerous community and wellness events in the communities in which we live and work. This is a direct reflection of our emphasis on employee well being - body, mind and soul. We’re celebrating our 50th anniversary in 2022, thanks to the dedication of our team members and support of our customers and partners.

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN

ENGINEER

SUPERINTENDENT

ELECTRICAL SERVICES TECHNICIAN

FOREMAN

GENERAL ASSEMBLER

ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

MATERIAL HANDLER

BILLI KIESTER DIRECTOR OF TALENT ACQUISITION

(833) 564-6384

[TEXT LINE] CAREERS@FAITHTECHINC.COM stuff.biztimes.com | S T U F F W I

33

300 South Bedford Street Madison, WI 53703 (608) 257-5321 findorff.com

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT FINDORFF Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Profit Sharing Paid Time Off (PTO)

WHO WE ARE

Wellness Program Apprenticeships/Internships Employee Assistance Program

Findorff is one of the Midwest’s leading builders, with offices in Madison, Milwaukee, and Wausau. Findorff currently employs an average of 900 construction professionals and tradespeople, and completes over $930 million in construction annually.

STUFF WE MAKE

INFO Employees: Office: 240; Field: 700 Year founded: 1890 President & CEO: Jim Yehle facebook.com/JHFindorff linkedin.com/company/ j-h--findorff-&-son-inc-/ @findorff youtube.com/channel/ UCQBv5psAQPQyBq1aVEt-K7w 34

STUFF WI

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Spring 2022

For over 132 years, Findorff has been dedicated to building environments that make differences in people’s lives.

Projects are only as good as the reasons for them and the people behind them. Findorff works hard to build a highquality, finished products that keeps our teams safe, clients happy, and communities better.

WORK HERE TODAY! A variety of professions are vital to a project and Findorff’s success. They include project managers, safety and field leaders, engineers, accountants, marketing and HR professionals, virtual construction specialists, and many more! By joining the construction industry, you will help shape communities across the region, and have a rewarding career that offers variety and growth opportunities.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

SEE YOURSELF @ FINDORFF

$63,000 starter

$78,000 experienced

$93,000+ expert LEAH CHUNG | PROJECT ENGINEER CO-OP

IAN BOWERS | PROJECT ENGINEER

AGE: 22 | YEARS AT FINDORFF: <1 year

AGE: 34 | YEARS AT FINDORFF: 3.5 years

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Studying Civil Engineering at UW-Madison

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Technical Diploma in Construction & Remodeling, Journeyman Carpenter

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I assist both my office and field teams by creating meeting agendas/minutes and organizing documents. I also communicate and visit project sites with various stakeholders to complete projects.

Daily Project Management tasks such as Project Budgeting, Contract Management, Field Coordination, Construction Document Management, Owner Relationships, collaborate to find solutions on various construction challenges, and construction progress site tours.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I studied civil and environmental engineering to incorporate my talent in STEM and environmental passion. During college, I became more interested in construction and decided to have a co-op/internship at Findorff after a previous co-op shared their experience.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started as a carpenter apprentice and eventually became a journeyman. When I got the chance to use my field experience in project management as a field engineer, I developed my skills to become a project engineer.

What is the best part about your job?

What is the best part about your job?

I enjoy the flexibility to explore and gain various aspects of knowledge related to construction management by interacting with owners and subcontractors.

I enjoy the entire construction journey! The best part is watching the building start from dirt, progress through construction, and finally see the building finished.

FUN STUFF • 76 Apprentices currently work for Findorff • Findorff’s Apprentices work side-by-side tradespeople to gain real-world experiences • Since 2015, Findorff has employed 33 High School Juniors or Seniors through the Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship Program

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

$93,000

PROJECT MANAGER

$80,000

ASSISTANT PROJECT MANAGER

$70,000

PROJECT ENGINEER

$63,000

CO-OPS & INTERNS

$18/HR • Of these youth apprentices, seven have been hired full-time as apprentices • Findorff employs craftspeople in six trades: Carpentry, Concrete, Demolition, Drywall, Masonry & Structural Steel

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

PROJECT MANAGERS

CONSTRUCTION CRAFTSPEOPLE

CONSTRUCTION PRE-APPRENTICES

PROJECT ENGINEERS

SAFETY/FIELD LEADERS

ESTIMATORS

VIRTUAL CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS

CO-OPS & INTERNS

RENEE BOYCE VP OF HUMAN RESOURCES

(608) 257-5321 HR@FINDORFF.COM FACEBOOK.COM/JHFINDORFF stuff.biztimes.com | S T U F F W I

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1333 Parkview Road Green Bay, WI 54304 (920) 338-6370 fosber.com

WHO WE ARE

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT FOSBER AMERICA INC Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance

We are the leading manufacturers of corrugated machinery and services for the North American market. All of Fosber’s machinery is backed by our world class Installation, Training, Service, Spare Parts and Upgrades. We are proud of our accomplishments, excited about our future and grateful to work in this exciting industry. “Our commitment is to work harder than anyone in the industry to make you happy”.

STUFF WE MAKE

Disability Insurance

To keep it simple, we make the machines that make shipping boxes - the same ones that hold all the products that get delivered to your home, and to the stores where you shop.

401(k) Bonuses Vacation (paid time off) Sick (paid time) Dependent Care Reimbursement

There is a lot that goes into making a box - so we are always innovating and improving our machines. We also have a growing, talented crew of maintenance professionals to keep our machines running in top condition for our customers.

WORK HERE TODAY!

Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internships

Fosber America sells and services machines that produce corrugated board to create boxes, but the career potential within our company cannot be contained. We are an organization that promotes from within and believes in developing our people.

Trust and transparency are cornerstones of our culture. Our president meets each person invited to join our team, and remains connected through company meetings.

INFO

You’ll take ownership of your career growth. We provide support in your professional development via internal training.

You’ll develop a professional network to help you succeed.

Our people are known for excellent customer service, and we believe they are the best co-workers, too.

Employees: 160 Year founded: 1989 President: Jeff Pallini

Fosber offers a competitive benefits package. We know that healthy and happy employees bring their best selves to work each day.

facebook.com/fosbera linkedin.com/company/ fosber-america-inc36

STUFF WI

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Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

SEE YOURSELF @ FOSBER AMERICA

$60,000 starter

$75,000 ARMANDO RAMIREZ

INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN/TESTER YEARS AT FOSBER: 2

experienced

$80,000+ expert

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Associate Degree - Electrical Engineering Technology

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

My day consists of testing corrugated machines throughout the entire process, from assembling to installation, at customer sites. This involves setting machines to mechanical specification, trouble-shooting and setup, and verifying proper functionality of machines according to PLC programs.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

EXPERIENCED TECHNICIAN

While in my last semester of technical college, I was hired as an electro-mechanical intern. After graduating, I was hired full-time as a field service technician. After a year, a new position for tester opened and I did not hesitate to jump on this great opportunity. Now I took forward to growing even more professionally and achieving bigger steps within the company.

It always keeps you on your toes with different challenges to solve. A great team is always there to help.

FUN STUFF

FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

ELECTRO-MECHANICAL INTERN

Fosber technicians travel all over the country and get to visit nearly every state. Their expenses are covered by the company, AND they get to keep all their airline and hotel points that they earn. Many of our technicians use these rewards for some fantastic vacations during their time off!

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, job shadowing, part time/flexible hours & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

MARISSA SELNER ELECTRO-MECHANICAL INTERN

ELECTRICAL ASSEMBLER

HR

FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

CNC MACHINIST

FOSBER.COM/CAREERS

MECHANICAL ASSEMBLER

(920) 338-6370 SELNERM@FOSBER.COM FACEBOOK.COM/FOSBERA stuff.biztimes.com | S T U F F W I

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1645 Bergstrom Road Neenah, WI 54956 (920) 751-1000 menashacorporation.com bit.ly/Menashastuffmag

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT MENASHA Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) Bonuses Vacation (paid time off) Dependent Care Reimbursement Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internships

WHO WE ARE

STUFF WE MAKE

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 173 years and today have over 6,500+ employees and 111 locations in North America and Europe.

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.

WORK HERE TODAY! 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.

INFO Employees: 6,500+ Year founded: 1849 President & CEO: James M. Kotek facebook.com/MenashaCorporation linkedin.com/company/27564 @menashacorpnews

• • • • • • • •

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.

@menashacorp

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Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

SEE YOURSELF @ MENASHA CORP

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

$15-$18/HR STARTER-EXPERT

$24-$28/HR SCOTT SOVA | TECHNICAL LEAD

ANNA FUTTER | OPERATIONS LEAD

YEARS AT ORBIS: 12

YEARS AT MENASHA: 3

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Associates Degree in Technical Studies

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: High School Education

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

I work with the Maintenance Techs to complete preventative maintenance on our machines, building repairs/upgrades, mold repairs, machine repairs/upgrades, and continuous improvement projects with different departments. I also help process techs when needed.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started at ORBIS when I was 20 as a temporary employee working as an Operator. I was hired on as a Regrind Operator, then a Process Technician for six years. When a Maintenance Tech position opened, I applied and got that job. In 2019, my boss retired and I applied for and got his job; I have been the Technical Lead/ Maintenance Manager ever since.

What is the best part about your job?

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Interact with and answer questions for production employees. Help manage our GPS student apprentices, interviews, reviews, and new hire onboarding. In summary, I help out wherever I am needed.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I started as Finishing Helper, worked up to Backup Operator, and Operator. After that, I was promoted to the Operation Lead. I was a Production Lead for 11 years prior to being a Missionary in Colombia South America.

What is the best part about your job?

MANAGER

LEAD

OPERATOR

The best part of my job is helping out the managers, interacting with all our production coworkers, and helping them on a daily basis.

BACKUP OPERATOR

I like working with the people. I enjoy working on different projects improving the building, machines, molds, and projects that make other employee’s jobs easier. I still enjoy trying to figure out issues with machines when they break down.

HELPER

FUN STUFF As a family-owned company founded in 1849, Menasha has always strived to be a good corporate citizen. Our core values—integrity, excellence, teamwork, and communities—coupled with our passion for innovation, enable us to make lasting favorable economic, environmental, and social impacts. We continue to build on the legacy we’ve built.

GENERAL LABOR

UTILITY

BACKUP OPERATOR

PRESS HELPER

FOLDER GLUER HELPER

MECHANIC

OPERATOR

PLATEMAKER

SHIPPING/FORKLIFT

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job-shadowing, summer employment, part time/flexible hours and other opportunities?

CONTACT:

TALENT ACQUISITION RECRUITING@MENASHA.COM

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817 Main Street Brownsville, WI 53006 (920) 924-8755 michels.us

WHO WE ARE

BENEFITS

Michels is one of the largest, most diversified energy and infrastructure contractors in North America. As a family-owned and operated corporation, we are unique to the industry. Our distinctive culture allows us to swiftly make critical decisions which support our customers infrastructure.

TO WORKING AT MICHELS Health Insurance Dental Insurance

We serve our customers with pipe fabrication, pipeline construction, electric utility construction, overhead power line construction, microtunneling, trenchless pipe repair and lining, directional drilling, deep foundations, and much more.

Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account

Our core values guide every action we take and every person we hire. Without these guiding principles, Michels quickly becomes “just another employer.”

Life Insurance Disability Insurance

Sick (paid time)

Through our combination of family-rooted business and exponential, world-wide growth, the Michels team is the perfect fit for anyone who matches up with these core values: Safety, Environment, Integrity, Dedication & Teamwork, Social Responsibility, and Sustainable Operations.

Tuition Reimbursement

Interested? Visit our website for more information.

Apprenticeships/Internships

STUFF WE MAKE

401(k) Vacation (paid time off)

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.

INFO

WORK HERE TODAY! 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.

Employees: 8,000 Year founded: 1959 President: Patrick D. Michels facebook.com/MichelsCorp linkedin.com/company/ michels-corporation youtube.com/user/MichelsCorporation @michelscareers

EOE/AA/M/F/D/V 40

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In addition to having opportunities to learn from industry leaders, grow your career, and have a direct impact on the success of the company, we recognize our team members work hard and are actively involved in the success of the company. We offer competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and professional development opportunities.

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMEST MEDIA

THIS COULD BE

YOU

@ MICHELS

LINEMAN

$57,000 starter

$90,000 experienced

$160,000

expert

EMPLOYEE 1 | LINEMAN

EMPLOYEE 2 | DIESEL MECHANIC

YEARS AT MICHELS: 2

YEARS AT MICHELS: 6

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Apprenticeship, Associates degree

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Associates degree

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I was lucky enough to have landed an apprenticeship – that was a great, hands-on way to learn the craft. My professional career path was to work in the trades. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and the skills I’ve learned have set me up for a successful, lifelong career.

What is the best part about your job?

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul buses, heavy trucks, and construction equipment Maintain and repair any type of diesel engines and heavy-duty fuel systems

MID-LEVEL MANAGEMENT

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Cars, trucks, etc. were always on my radar. I was always tinkering with them and seemed to have a knack for fixing them. It was only natural that I ended up pursing a career as a mechanic.

What is the best part about your job?

I feel that by working as a lineman, I am providing a much-needed service. It’s nice to know I am helping area residents be able to power their day.

SENIOR LEADERSHIP

MANAGER

The best part of my job is keeping our equipment functioning in an optimal way. Keeping our equipment on the road affects how well our crews can do their jobs, so I feel that I make an important contribution to making the company run.

COORDINATOR

FUN STUFF

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

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

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

HSE COORDINATOR

IT

CONSTRUCTION WORKER

ENGINEER

SKILLED LABOR

SURVEYOR

(920) 924-8755

MECHANIC

CAREERS@MICHELS.US FACEBOOK.COM/MICHELSCORP

CUSTOMER SERVICE

HUMAN RESOURCES

HUMAN RESOURCES

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1635 West Spencer Street Appleton, WI 54914 (920) 734-9821 millerwelds.com

WHO WE ARE

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT MILLER Health Insurance Dental Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance

STUFF WE MAKE

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

INFO Employees: 1,500 Year founded: 1929 President: Justin Blount

facebook.com/MillerWelders linkedin.com/company/118096 @MillerWelders youtube.com/MillerWelders

42

STUFF WI

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.

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Spring 2022

• 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

WORK HERE TODAY! 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 MEDIA

THIS COULD BE

YOU

@MILLER

$23/HR starter

$29/HR experienced

$34/HR experienced JAYCE SPICE | FABRICATOR

KYLE BELONGER | MACHINIST

AGE: 21 | YEARS AT MILLER: 2.5

AGE: 29 | YEARS AT MILLER: 10

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Jayce is currently in the Industrial Welding Technology program at FVTC

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Daily tasks include: set-up and running sheet metal punching and bending equipment, changing machine tooling, prepping parts to be painted, basic troubleshooting.

Jayce is also training in programming.

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

Jayce had only completed a few classes in his FVTC program when he joined Miller as an agency employee. He was hired after several months and has demonstrated his ability to learn, training with Miller employees while attending school.

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of the job, according to Jayce is the ownership he feels over the work that he’s doing.

My day as a machinist at Miller can vary from day-to-day.

The week will start with taking care of weekly preventative maintenance on the machines, followed by checking dimensions on all parts being machined and adjusting, as necessary.

Throughout the week machines will need to be set up for open orders and will also come across machines that will need to be troubleshooted for alarms or improperly machined parts. Most days will have a balanced routine but, there is always something new to learn and a problem to be solved.

MACHINIST

$23-$36/HR

FABRICATOR

$23-$34/HR

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

To get skills in trades that have value wherever I may need to go. I made my way into machining by starting in assembly and found a good fit to utilize my problem solving skills in machining applications.

MACHINE/EQUIP OPERATOR

$20-$32/HR

What is the best part about your job?

Most days present a new challenge and the satisfaction you get when you find a solution to it.

ASSEMBLER

$17-$30/HR

FUN STUFF Our culture is family oriented and fun. We have an annual family company picnic hosting up to 3,000 people and host an event at the Building for Kids during the end of the 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.

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

KARI PRENTICE HR MANAGER MACHINISTS

ASSEMBLERS

FABRICATORS

MAINTENANCE MECHANICS

(920) 735-4393 KARI.PRENTICE@MILLERWELDS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/MILLERELECTRIC-MFG-CO/111729325556279 stuff.biztimes.com | S T U F F W I

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1330 Contract Drive Green Bay, WI 54304 (920) 339-2222 optima-packaging.com

WHO WE ARE

BENEFITS

We celebrated 35 years in Green Bay, Wis. in 2020. Our employees travel all over the world and work with a variety of customers on a diverse range of packaging machines.

Technology is always advancing and Optima continues to advance with it, our employees work with the latest technologies and advancements in the packaging machine world. Optima is headquartered in Schwabisch Hall, Germany and includes 19 foreign subsidiaries, and over 2,650 employees around the world.

TO WORKING AT OPTIMA Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Health Savings Account

STUFF WE MAKE

Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance

“Our employees work with

Disability Insurance

the latest technologies

401(k) Bonuses

and advancements in the

Vacation (paid time off)

packaging machine world.”

Sick (paid time)

Optima Machinery Corporation designs and builds packaging and filling machines for pharmaceutical, consumer, nonwovens and life science products. Our machines specialize in a variety of products and processes including syringes, vials, freeze-drying, toilet paper, wet wipes, chemicals, cosmetics, coffee, snack foods, transdermal patches, oral filmstrips, and more.

WORK HERE TODAY! We currently have openings for field service technicians throughout the company. We are looking for individuals with an engineering background who love to travel and would be interested in working on a variety of different types of packaging machines each day.

Wellness Program

INFO Employees: 90 Year founded: 1985 President: Uli Unterriker

facebook.com/ OptimaMachineryCorporation linkedin.com/company/ optima-machinery-corporation youtube.com/optimagroup1 44

STUFF WI

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Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

SEE YOURSELF @ OPTIMA

$24.17/HR Wisconsin average

DEVIN DEBAKER

FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN YEARS AT OPTIMA: 2

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Every day is a different and unique challenge. I am currently a Field Service Technician for our Consumer diviision where I service packaging/filling equipment for a variety of products at a customer’s site.

What does this job and working for this company mean to you?

I get to travel to a customer’s facility to setup or service one of our machines and seeing the impact it makes on the great people we get to work with. The manufacturing field is one that will always continue to grow. You get to work and learn with many great people and with the rapid growth of technology; there is a new opportunity around every corner. Being able to look back at the product your company manufactures and know you were a part of it is very rewarding. I love working with the great people that I get to work with every day and seeing the machines, that I helped build, start up for the first time.

You get to work and learn with many great people and with the rapid growth in technology; there is a new opportunity around every corner.

FUN STUFF

SERVICE ACCOUNT MANAGER

SENIOR FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

We love to celebrate our company’s German heritage and hold an Oktoberfest event every two years with traditional German food, music, beer, and fun. We also have an annual holiday party where we have brought in comedians and casino nights for employees and their spouses. We pride ourselves in being a friendly and flexible work environment where employees can feel comfortable to lean on each other and everyone works together.

Want MORE INFORMATION about tours, internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing & other opportunities?

CONTACT:

SENIOR SERVICE TECHNICIAN

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

AUTOMATION CONTROLS ENGINEER

ELECTRO MECHANICAL FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

ANN BRITTEN HR MANAGER

(920) 339-2222 HR@OPTIMA-PACKAGING.COM

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N3 W23650 Badinger Road Waukesha, WI 53188 (262) 524-1700 walbecgroup.com

BENEFITS

TO WORKING AT WALBEC GROUP Health, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Disability Insurance 401(k) & Profit Sharing Bonuses Paid Time Off Dependent Care Reimbursement

WHO WE ARE

WORK HERE TODAY!

Together Payne and Dolan, Northeast Asphalt, Zenith Tech, Parisi, Premier Concrete, and Construction Resources Management produce high-quality construction materials and deliver unparalleled professional design, engineering, and construction services.

A positive, inclusive, and goal-driven culture is at the foundation of why Walbec team members enjoy coming to work each day. This culture, combined with a respectful and challenging work environment, ensures every team member is heard and valued. Leaders are transparent in their communication, recognize hard work, and provide continued personal and professional growth opportunities. Work-life balance is encouraged, and team members are trusted with the autonomy to get the job done.

Each day, the Walbec team is challenged to deliver cost-effective, expert solutions to meet our customers’ infrastructure design, engineering, and construction needs.

While we are often associated with state, municipal, and federal projects, many customers are commercial businesses.

The Walbec Group helps our team members, customers, and communities reach their destinations. Our combined strengths create a world-class organization that takes pride in working efficiently and safely to provide innovative, environmentally friendly solutions to the communities where we live and work.

Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement Apprenticeships/Internships

At Walbec, team member perks include a casual work environment, paid health insurance premiums for qualifying individuals and families, profit sharing, 401(k) contribution, employee assistance program, wellness initiatives and incentives, tuition reimbursement, competitive salaries, and continuing education/professional development opportunities.

As a 2021 Best Place to Work, we take great pride in the challenging, positive, and inclusive culture we continue to build. Our goal is to ensure a work environment where every team member feels respected and valued. We are committed to providing safe and healthy working conditions and an atmosphere of open communication.

Employee Resource Groups Employee Assistance Programs

INFO Employees: 1,825 Year founded: 1930 Chairman & CEO: Kurt Bechthold President, COO & Secretary: Mark Filmanowicz facebook.com/walbecgroup

STUFF WE MAKE Walbec is one of the Midwest’s most prominent, leading asphalt and aggregate producers. Our facilities are located throughout the Midwest to serve our customers best.

We also use these products to pave roadway projects, build bridges, and complete site development projects throughout Wisconsin and neighboring States.

linkedin.com/company/walbec-group youtube.com/c/WalbecGroup 46

STUFF WI

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Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

THIS COULD BE

YOU

@WALBEC GROUP

ROBERT FORREST

3RD YEAR CARPENTER APPRENTICE FOR ZENITH TECH

CARPENTER

$17-23/HR starter

$36-37/HR

experienced

$37-39/HR expert

YEARS AT WALBEC: 3 EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Trade school; Final year of carpenter apprenticeship

What do you do on a day-to-day basis at your job?

Each day, I arrive early for our crew huddle to discuss the plan for the day and any safety precautions. Every bridge project requires concrete forms of all shapes and sizes to support wet concrete. I build and assemble both wood and steel forms in the field, construct other support features of bridges, and sometimes help pour concrete. Once the concrete has been poured and set, I strip the falsework and forms. As a carpenter, I am involved in any construction activity that involves wood!

SUPERINTENDENT

$69K - $90K/YR

How did you arrive at your current position? What was your professional or career path?

I was looking for a career that would allow me to gain the education and training I need to succeed in heavy highway construction. I also wanted to earn financial freedom with work that I enjoy. I completed the TrANS Roadbuilding Training Program at WRTP | BIG STEP, an intensive road construction preparation program that prepared me to step into an apprenticeship with Zenith Tech.

I enjoy the variety each day provides and how much we accomplish. Our Zenith Tech crew is amazing, and I learn something new each day.

FOREMAN

$37/HR - $39/HR

JOURNEYWORKER

$36/HR & UP

APPRENTICE

$21/HR - $34/HR

FUN STUFF The longevity of our team members speaks volumes to our inclusive culture, where team members become family.

Scan the QR code to watch Robert’s video.

Want MORE INFORMATION about internships, apprenticeships, and career opportunities?

CONTACT: LABORER

OPERATOR

HUMAN RESOURCES

CEMENT MASON

QC FIELD TECHNICIAN

(262) 524-1700

CARPENTER

LAND SURVEYOR

CAREERS@WALBECGROUP.COM

stuff.biztimes.com | S T U F F W I

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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 Wisconsin.

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

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

CAREER CRUISING

CAREER INFONET

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

CODE.ORG

code.org Free computer science courses.

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.

GIRL DEVELOP IT

girldevelopit.com 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.

WISCONSIN EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNIT Y PROGRAMS

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

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

CAREER OUTLOOK

bls.gov 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.

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.

WISCONNECT INTERNSHIP COORDINATION

internshipwisconsin.com Connects employers and students interested in internships.

WISCONSIN AHEC HEALTH CAREERS

wihealthcareers.org Information on health careers in Wisconsin.

WISCONSIN TECHCONNECT

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.

48

STUFF WI

|

Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

Go to DIESEL MECHANIC

TECHNICAL LEAD

MACHINIST

PROJECT ENGINEER CO-OP

FABRICATOR

PROJECT ENGINEER

FIELD SERVICE TECHNICIAN

LEASED LABOR TALENT PARTNER

INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN/TESTER

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE CAREERS?

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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 Wisconsin.

UW-LA CROSSE

uwlax.edu UW-OSHKOSH

uwosh.edu UW-PLATTEVILLE

uwplatt.edu UW-RIVER FALLS

H I G H E R E D S T U FF

uwrf.edu

BLACKHAWK TECHNICAL COLLEGE

uwsp.edu

blackhawk.edu CHIPPEWA VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

cvtc.edu FOX VALLEY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

fvtc.edu GATEWAY TECHNICAL COLLEGE

gtc.edu HERZING UNIVERSIT Y – MADISON

herzing.edu MADISON AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE

madisoncollege.edu

UW-STEVENS POINT UW-STOUT

uwstout.edu UW-WHITEWATER

uww.edu UW-WHITEWATER AT ROCK COUNT Y

uww.edu/rock VITERBO UNIVERSIT Y

viterbo.edu WESTERN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

westerntc.edu

MARIAN UNIVERSIT Y

marianuniversity.edu MID-STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

mstc.edu MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE

morainepark.edu LAKELAND UNIVERSIT Y

lakeland.edu LAKESHORE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

gotoltc.edu LAWRENCE UNIVERSIT Y

lawrence.edu NORTHEAST WISCONSIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE

nwtc.edu NORTHCENTRAL TECHNICAL COLLEGE

ntc.edu RIPON COLLEGE

ripon.edu ST. NORBERT COLLEGE

snc.edu UW-EAU CLAIRE

uwec.edu UW-GREEN BAY

uwgb.edu UW-MADISON

wisc.edu

50

STUFF WI

|

Spring 2022

A PRODUCT OF BIZTIMES MEDIA

IMPORTANT HANDS-ON CHOOSE YOUR OWN CAREER ADVENTURE SMART REWARDING Learn at the state-of-the-art

TRANSPORTATION CENTER at the NWTC Green Bay campus

The Transportation Center is designed to create a dealership environment and give students hands-on access to: • A diesel truck repair lab • An auto collision refinishing lab • Two auto repair labs complete with a shared parts department • A transportation welding shop • A high bay demonstration lab for instructional and corporate partnerships Your Career Adventure is waiting for you at NWTC. College is for YOU! Get started today at nwtc.edu/Transportation

ACCELERATE

YOUR FUTURE AT

MSOE

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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

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Top 10 Best

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$66,694 average starting salary

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U.S. News & World Report (2022)