STUFF a guide to
A PROD UCT OF
made and built in southeastern Wisconsin FALL 2018
COVER STORY page 16 Cool stuff made and built in southeastern Wisconsin
Cost of LIving page 26 Personal budgets and finding a salary that works for you
STUFF BLOWN UP page 14 & 28 How did they build that?
check out our PROFILES - pgs 42-107
to learn about 33 career opportunities!
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2 / STUFF ž BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
STUFF welcome to
made and built in southeastern Wisconsin
PL A N N I N G F O R C A R EER S O F T H E F U T U R E WELCOME to BizTimes Media’s second annual edition of STUFF, our workforce development publication for young adults. In STUFF, you can check out some of our state’s coolest products and learn which jobs are hot now. The pace of change continues to accelerate as we prepare tomorrow’s workers for their future jobs, some of which do not even exist yet. We’ve experienced sustained growth in the manufacturing industry over the past year in southeastern Wisconsin. Exciting news this year for future workers is the imminent arrival of Foxconn Technology Group, the LCD screen manufacturer, to our I-94 North-South corridor. Mount Pleasant will soon be home to one of the most high-tech facilities in the world. High schools and postsecondary institutions are quickly adapting their programs to best prepare our students for the new advanced manufacturing environ-
ments of “Industry 4.0” that are developing right here in Wisconsin. Thousands of jobs are projected to be created by Foxconn’s campus. This immense development is also spurring our thriving building and construction industries, which are eager to gain more workers. Southeastern Wisconsin students are taking advantage of the many programs in the area partnering businesses and schools to explore area work opportunities via competitions, information sessions and more. We’ve gathered examples of how you can explore your career options while still in high school in our Five Steps article on page 6. Now, more than ever, is the time for interested students to get involved in STEM fields. The shortage of skilled workers in high-tech fields is a major issue, and even more concerning is the lack of
female workers and students in STEM. Women are estimated to comprise only 15 to 25 percent of the current STEM workforce, and the gap is broadening. In this issue of STUFF, we highlight some of the women who are working in STEM-focused career. Thanks to our incredible editorial advisory board who shared their insights. We hope through these pages that you find an occupation or company worth exploring more deeply. Here’s to finding meaningful study and career
paths that are the best fit for you.
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STUFF biztimes.com / 3
CONTENTS
STUFF a guide to
made and built in southeastern Wisconsin FALL 2018
VOLUME 23, NUMBER 4 MAY 15 - 28, 2017
p6
PUBL ISHER ’S L E T TER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p A note from Dan Meyer, publisher
126 N. Jefferson St., Suite 403, Milwaukee, WI 53202-6120 PHONE: 414-277-8181 FAX: 414-277-8191 WEBSITE: www.biztimes.com CIRCULATION E-MAIL: circulation@biztimes.com ADVERTISING E-MAIL: ads@biztimes.com EDITORIAL E-MAIL: andrew.weiland@biztimes.com REPRINTS: reprints@biztimes.com Additional copies $15 each
PUBLISHER / OWNER
Dan Meyer dan.meyer@biztimes.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Mary Ernst mary.ernst@biztimes.com
EDITORIAL EDITOR
Andrew Weiland andrew.weiland@biztimes.com MANAGING EDITOR
Molly Dill molly.dill@biztimes.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Valerie Valentine valerie.valentine@biztimes.com REPORTER
Lauren Anderson lauren.anderson@biztimes.com REPORTER
Corrinne Hess corri.hess@biztimes.com REPORTER
Arthur Thomas arthur.thomas@biztimes.com REPORTER
Maredithe Meyer maredithe.meyer@biztimes.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
P.J. Carter
What do you want to do? Basic things you can do to find your profession.
SALES & MARKETING
p16
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Linda Crawford linda.crawford@biztimes.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
David Pinkus david.pinkus@biztimes.com
p26
COS T O F L I V ING .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Christie Ubl christie.ubl@biztimes.com
C A REER SPOTL IGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR
Sue Herzog sue.herzog@biztimes.com
p36
PRODUCTION & DESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGNER
WA N T TO BE A N ENGINEER ? . . . . . . . . . . . How shop floor experience can work for your future.
CO NS TRU C TIO N .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alex Schneider alex.schneider@biztimes.com Shelly Tabor shelly.tabor@biztimes.com
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p 38 p 40
Students experience hands-on home building with Tim O’Brien Homes.
ART DIRECTOR
Independent & Locally Owned — Founded 1995 —
p 32
Highlighting youth apprentices, interns and women in STEM careers.
ADMINISTRATION
p38
PROFIL E S .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
p 42
Local companies & employees Area businesses share a look inside their day-to-day and current positions in demand.
RE SO URCE S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
p 26
The costs of living: Making ends meet on your own Budgeting and saving for a rainy day, featuring hot job salaries.
Maggie Pinnt maggie.pinnt@biztimes.com
Meredith Jensen meredith.m.jensen@gmail.com
p 14 & 28
Wisconsin sources for local products How did they build the new Bucks arena? What jobs were involved? Which Wisconsin companies make some popular garage standards?
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
FREELANCE ART DIRECTOR
p 16
Cool stuff made and built in southeastern Wisconsin Discover key products and name brands produced in this region by businesses with global reach
S T UFF BLOW N UP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Molly Lawrence molly.lawrence@biztimes.com
p6
5 S TEPS TO A C A REER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CO O L S T UFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
p 110
Featuring career information sources and tools for students, employers and educators.
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STEPS to finding a career
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STEP 1
ACADEMIC AND CAREER PLANNING.
In school, you’ve probably worked with a guidance counselor to identify areas of interest. This involves answering a few questions about yourself.
What
STUFF do you want to do?
Take this work interest quiz to find out. Choose the letter most
Each letter represents an interest area with careers that might be a good fit. Which letter did you choose most? People tell me that I am:
In my free time, I like to:
My favorite class in school is:
I admire:
a) Full of energy b) Logic-minded c) A talented writer d) Good at negotiating
a) Woodshop b) Chemistry c) Art d) Statistics
a) Build and fix things b) Explore new technologies c) Dream up inventions d) Get organized
a) M ike Rowe, host of “Dirty Jobs” b) Stephen Hawking, astrophysicist c) W alt Disney, animation visionary d) Warren Buffet, billionaire businessman
Mostly As: You are hands-on. The more you are able to
touch and manipulate the information, the easier it will be for you to learn.
POSSIBLE CAREERS: Welder, CNC programmer, assembler, machinist (tool & die), electrical engineer.
Mostly Bs: You are scientific. You typically work through
problems and issues in a systematic way, and you like to create procedures for future use. POSSIBLE CAREERS: CAD designer, product developer, mechanical engineer, robotics/automation specialist, industrial engineer.
Mostly Cs: You are creative. You enjoy using images, colors and maps to organize information and communicate with others. POSSIBLE CAREERS: Web designer, advertising representative, network support staff, marketing manager, software programmer.
Mostly Ds: You are business-minded. You like to work through issues, ideas and problems with a group.
POSSIBLE CAREERS: Trainer, human resources assistant, computer information systems manager, accounts payable clerk, supervisor.
(Source: Adapted from Dream It. Do it. – Wisconsin)
You can speak with mentors who will tell you what you need to know about their jobs: how they got there and what they do. You can then decide if that career is realistic for you.
GO PRO:
REALITY CHECK WITH A PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE
ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR career aspirations for young adults is pro athlete. Here’s some advice from one who knows: a professional athlete career coach. “I played professional basketball. The road to becoming a professional athlete is not as glamorous as the end result appears to be. Whether you want to be a professional baseball player, lawyer, engineer or architect, you have to be focused and dedicated to achieve that goal. “Right now, there are probably millions of ninth graders who want to become professional ballplayers. However, only a small percentage of those people will actually achieve that goal. “A quick look at the rosters of the three professional Wisconsin sports teams shows 25 players on the Brewers roster, 53 players on the Packers roster and 15 players on the Bucks roster, for a total of 93 pro sports jobs in the entire state. “So what can you do to move closer to your goal? “Start with your academics and make sure you’re not only always eligible to play, but also excel academically. If you’re not good enough to play at the professional level, you’ll at least have a good education that will help you pursue another career path. Now get to work.” n
You can read more from this career coach and many others at CareerCruising.com (INSPIRE Southeast Wisconsin).
STUFF biztimes.com / 7
5 S TEPS
STEP 2
GET EXPOSED TO BUSINESS.
Once you’ve identified an area of work you might pursue, get to know local businesses where you might apply your talents and learn new skills. Some ways to learn about local employers include participating in tours of businesses, going to career fairs and attending information sessions at school. Recruiters offer mock interviews and speed interviewing to sample a variety of industries.
THE METROPOLITAN BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF GREATER MILWAUKEE this spring offered a Building Trades Career Day for high school students in conjunction with the 2018 Parade of Homes. MBA hosted nearly 400 students from 13 local schools at Lake Country Village in Summit and Hidden Hills in Sussex. Students were invited to tour the job sites and hear trades workers talk about their jobs. They got a glimpse of the new home construction process and it introduced them to career opportunities in the trades. The 2018 MBA Parade of Homes runs August 11 through September 3 and will feature 22 brand new homes from 20 of southeastern Wisconsin’s top homebuilders, in three subdivisions. n
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More involved career experiences might include doing a job shadow, where students can go through a day of work at a business to experience the daily challenges of a role. Internships or co-ops can offer students real-world experience on the job while going to high school or technical college as part of their schooling.
Photos courtesy of MBA
STEP 3
TAKE A CLASS.
If you’ve found a few interest areas you might like to pursue, find a class to hone your skills. A school guidance counselor can help you map your interests to the class offerings in your school district. Working on machines that real factories use means students are prepared for future jobs. Arrowhead Union High School District has gone through many transitions and is working to replace the outdated shops of yesterday with modern, bright labs of tomorrow for mechanically inclined students. Schools try to line up classes with the needs of the economy in
which students will work. For example, some New Berlin students are learning about modernized smart factories that share data among machines. Factories now have layers of technology that workers need to understand. The class offering, “How Machines Work,” developed from business leaders recognizing a need to upskill manufacturing talent for high-tech analytics. For some of the projects, students have access to Waukesha County Technical College’s robotics equipment in its Advanced Manufacturing Center.
Above: Jeff Luetschwager working with a group of engineering students in Arrowhead’s south campus engineering labs. Near Right: Sophomore students working in the south campus manufacturing lab on their metal coffee table base. Bottom far right: Sophomore students working in the south campus manufacturing lab. Top Left and Right: The north campus metal lab before an anticipated remodel.
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5 S TEPS
STEP 4
JOIN A CLUB.
Project-based, hands-on learning is one of the best ways to find out what you like to do. You never know unless you try! Many groups, at schools and beyond, offer career exposure to tasks one might perform on the job. Challenges often are presented as contests, with prizes awarded. The New Berlin Blitz robotics team designs and builds a robot to compete in the FIRST Robotics Competition. Many jobs today and in the future will require STEM skills. A need for greater diversity in these fields is drawing businesses to
New Berlin robotics team
involve young women in these areas, such as the recent Girls in Manufacturing Tour attended by Waukesha West High School. “These are the girls who will change the world,” said girls’ STEM Club advisor Elle Stigler. An all-female team of motorcycle rehabbers in Milwaukee won several awards in the BUILD program this spring. It’s a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to pairing teams of high school students with bike-building mentors, founded by The Iron Horse Hotel.
BUILD Program
The New Berlin Blitz robotics team is made up of 55 seventh through 12th grade students from both New Berlin West and New Berlin Eisenhower. The team recently implemented varsity lettering so the work of the robotics team is recognized alongside the school’s athletics teams. n
Leah Orloff and Loyal Prach of Shorewood’s DBR Racing team compete at the BUILD Race Day event.
Robot driver Robert Schweigel (left, above) and manipulator Logan Podlesnik (right) maneuver “Drew’s Dream.”
The BUILD program teaches Milwaukee students to fix and build motorcycles from scratch. During a BUILD season, from January to June, the program provides each participating team with a vintage motorcycle to be worked on, along with mentors and a workspace, with the end goal of racing the bike in an American Flat Track motorcycle race.
Girls in Manufacturing tour
Students with Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch on the Schools2Skills tour.
The WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE recently offered the first annual Girls in Manufacturing Schools2Skills tour at Alloy Products Corp. The Alliance has been running Schools2Skills
10 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
tours for the past seven years to show high school students all the careers the manufacturing industry has to offer. Betsy Bear Hoff, president of Alloy Products, spoke to students from Waukesha West High School’s all-girl STEM Club about why manufacturing is a great career option. Betsy is a fourth-generation family member working in the business. “Everything I learned on the shop floor was helpful to get me where I am today,” Bear Hoff said. She emphasized trying new things to find what you are good at and a job you enjoy. Students were joined for the tour by Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who told the girls, “Choose STEM, choose Wisconsin for school, and stay and work in Wisconsin!” n
The Iron Angels BUILD team was unique in that it was girls-only and consisted of students from multiple high schools. The seven Iron Angels students, spanning freshmen through seniors, came from Divine Savior Holy Angels High School, Franklin High School, Pius XI High School and Dominican High School. Six of them joined as builders and one joined to learn about finance and project management. There were eight other BUILD teams during the 2018 season: New Berlin, Bradley Tech, Milwaukee Lutheran, Muskego, Oak Creek, Shorewood, South Milwaukee and St. Francis. Some of the students have already put their new skills to use at home. One Iron Angel races mountain bikes as a hobby; she now fixes her own bike. Another team member said she feels more confident in basic mechanical-type tasks like changing a tire on her car. One of the other students signed up for an engineering camp. The Iron Angels received three awards this season: Best Social Media, People’s Choice and Brewtown Rumble Judge’s Choice. n
STEP 5
DUAL ENROLL.
If you feel like traditional school is not working for you, consider dual enrollment, where students go to school and also work. They earn credits, get experience and are paid. Graduates can use their money toward college, and some even get hired after graduation in a secure job. GPS Education Partners’ education centers collaborate with school districts and business partners to piece together options
Welder in training Faith Stenson is a student at East Troy High School who graduated in spring 2018 from GPS Education Partners. She trained as a welder at Banker Wire and plans to attend Gateway Technical College’s welding program post-graduation.
Faith Stenson practicing welding.
“The people I worked with at Banker Wire made me feel like I am one of them and they didn’t treat me like a little kid. I felt like I was a regular employee and part of the team,” Faith said. HOW TO APPLY It’s easy to get involved with GPS Education Partners. Applications are accepted year round, so you can apply as a fall semester junior, spring semester junior or fall semester senior. To get started: »» Talk to school staff and attend a tour of an education center/business partner. »» Apply online at gpsed.org/apply. »» Interview with GPS personnel. Next comes the admittance decision. »» The final step is new student registration and orientation. Welcome! Questions? Learn more at gpsed.org. Email enroll@gpsed.org or call 1-844-8218118 for more information. n
for each individual student. They work to personalize a program so every student has a clear pathway to success. Waukesha County Technical College’s Dual Enrollment Academy offers students their first year of a technical degree before they graduate high school. They shuttle to WCTC to get access to equipment. Some kids want something more than the typical teenage job. Go for it!
A parent’s perspective on GPS Education Partners “The GPS program changed the life of our son, Yoshi Halmar, in a great Tim and Yoshi Halmar. way. It also had a profound and very positive effect on our entire family. “My wife, Lynn, and I saw that the personalized attention in a much smaller group and in a non-traditional setting might be appealing to our son. We also recognized with some strong hope that our son might benefit from real-world experience, structure and personal accountability in an adult workplace. “In addition to academics and manufacturing skills, the students learned and developed life skills, such as financial management, job searching and interviewing. On a regular basis, Yoshi joined his classmates to offer volunteer service to a range of community organizations. Field trips also provided hands-on and real-world exam-
ples and experience with some of the concepts they were learning about in the classroom. “An incredible milestone that was immensely encouraging was when he was recognized for having perfect attendance for the entire junior year. In contrast, Yoshi had an excessive number of absences his freshman and sophomore years in the traditional academic setting. “Yoshi earned four industry credentials through the GPS program, culminating in attaining the certified production technician certification from the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council. Even better, Yoshi accepted an offer to become a full-time employee at Danfoss. “Each graduating student had the opportunity to offer a statement about his or her experience in GPS. Yoshi said, ‘The biggest skill I have developed the past two years is self-awareness. I have learned to think before I act.’ “Lynn and I offer our highest possible endorsement of the GPS program. We are deeply grateful for the tremendous outcomes with which our family has been blessed, and we’re thrilled that dozens of other families with students who graduated this spring achieved similarly wonderful success.” n — from Tim Halmar, father of Yoshi Halmar, a GPS graduate of Brown Deer High School (2018).
MAX CZECHOWSKI - Waukesha County Technical College Dual Enrollment Academy student, 2016-’17 In May 2018, MA X CZECHOWSKI earned his associate’s degree in automation systems technology from Waukesha County Technical College one year after graduating from Brookfield Central High School in June 2017. Thanks to WCTC’s Dual Enrollment Academy program, Max was able to get a jumpstart in his education and complete the first year of studies in that AST program while he was a senior in high school. It also has given him opportunities to serve internships at two companies – Pieper Electric Inc.,
where he spent the summer and fall of 2017 building industrial control panels, and most recently, at Schoeneck Containers Inc., where he works with automation processes. “Technical education is really practical; it makes sense. What we learn here will make us successful in our careers,” Max said. Max was named the 2018-’19 Student Ambassador for WCTC, was an Outstanding Student Award winner, and participated in the 2017 Skills Accelerator program though The Commons. He plans to earn a second associate’s degree at WCTC, in mechanical engineering technology, and later transfer into a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year college or university. n STUFF biztimes.com / 11
BLOWN UP
STUFF BUCKS ARENA
Downtown Milwaukee’s new $524 million arena will host concerts, the Milwaukee Bucks, Marquette Universi men’s basketball and other entertainment. The amount of resources that go into a construction project of this size is mind-blowing! Here are a few of the necessary parts and the Wisconsin companies that
» » More than 1,300 steps – produced by Midwest Stairs & Iron, Milwaukee » » Restrooms: 18 men’s; 22 women’s; 14 all-gender; and five wellness rooms – plumbing by Hooper Corp., Madison » » More than 9,000 light fixtures – electrical work by Staff Electric Co., Menomonee Falls » » More than 6,000 receptacles and devices » » More than 600,000 linear feet of conduit » » More than 3 million linear feet of wire » » More than 1,000 plumbing fixtures – produced by Kohler Co., Kohler, and Zurn, Milwaukee » » More than 150,000 bricks (300 pallets and 15 truckloads) – installed by Arteaga Construction Inc., Milwaukee » » 89,417 structural bolts » » 17,500 seats » » More than 8,000 tons (16 million pounds) of structural steel » » 9 trusses, each 200 feet, weighing 50 to 80 tons – produced by Merrill Iron & Steel Inc. – Schofield, WI » » 20,000 cubic yards of concrete – installed by M.A. Mortenson Co., Brookfield; Choice Construction Cos. Inc., Menomonee Falls; JCP Construction LLC, Milwaukee
12 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee SPRING 2018
blown up
TEAM: ARENA Nearly 3,700 workers worked hard to construct the new Wisconsin Entertainment and Sports Center. Here are some of the jobs involved, training required and average pay.
ELECTRICIAN Tasks: Install and wire electrical systems; plan, diagram and repair electrical fixtures and controls. Training: Five-year apprenticeship | Average hourly wage: $25.11
PLUMBER Tasks: Design, install and maintain pipes for water and waste; vent gas systems; repair fixtures. Training: Five-year apprenticeship | Average hourly wage: $30.11
CARPENTER Tasks: Building site prep; frame walls and roofs, hang walls; install windows, doors and cabinetry. Training: Four-year apprenticeship Average hourly wage: $21.64
LABORER Tasks: Prepare and clean work sites; drill and blast site areas; lay pipe; build scaffolds; place concrete. Training: Apprenticeship with classroom and on-the-job training Average hourly wage: $17.95
IRON WORKER Tasks: Raise, place and connect steel to form structural frameworks; install building components; weld metal. Training: Four-year apprenticeship | Average hourly wage: $27.45
OPERATOR Tasks: Use power construction equipment such as graders, dozers, cranes, pumps and loaders to grade earth, put up structures and pour surface pavement. Training: Apprenticeship | Average hourly wage: $25.11
PROJECT MANAGER Tasks: Coordinate activities of various project contributors; make sure projects finish on time and within budget. Training: Two-year technical training or four-year college degree Entry level wage: $21.61
SUPERINTENDENT Tasks: Plan and oversee building of structures; make sure buildings are safe to use. Training: Two-year technical training or four-year college degree Entry level wage: $34.87
ENGINEER Tasks: Plan, design and oversee the construction of buildings and structures. Training: Four-year college degree. | Entry level wage: $28.38
ARCHITECT Tasks: Design and sketch building plans; manage resources to keep projects on time and within budget. Training: Four-year college degree | Entry level wage: $25.55
Photo: Kenny Yoo
Sources: buildingadvantage.org, careercruising.com STUFF ž biztimes.com / 13
COOL S TUFF
COOL STUFF Made in Southeastern Wisconsin
From well-known brands to surprising items, we are delighted to present a few of the exciting things Wisconsinites take pride in designing, assembling and supplying across the globe. We are lucky to have such a richly productive region of makers. Food and beverage manufacturers have a thriving scene here. We also build lots of STUFF for consumers and industrial customers. Every company profiled here has jobs for the future, not only in manufacturing and assembly, but also in sales, marketing, engineering, HR, finance, management and other professions. If the company is in your neighborhood, go check out its job board or support the business by trying its products or taking a tour. Enjoy our roundup of some of the awesome STUFF made in Wisconsin.
GATORS JOHN DEERE HORICON WORKS is one of Deere & Co.’s flagship factories, manufacturing durable and reliable products for generations of John Deere customers. John Deere Horicon Works leads the industry in manufacturing technology and environmental stewardship. The factory assembles John Deere lawn tractors and gator utility vehicles. They keep the farms in Wisconsin 14 / STUFF ž BizTimes Milwaukee SPRING 2018
RIDING MOWERS Briggs & Stratton Corp. is the world’s largest producer of gasoline engines for outdoor power equipment. The company is also a manufacturer of numerous outdoor power products, right in our own backyard. The Wauwatosa factory produces standby generators, pressure washers, snowblowers, and walk and riding mowers.
PIZZA Milwaukee’s own Palermo Villa Inc. operates from a 250,000-square-foot manufacturing facility on West Canal Street. Palermo’s is a familyowned company that was founded in 1964 and is still owned by the Fallucca family. Ingredients for its signature frozen pizzas come from all over Wisconsin. The factory is a high-tech pizza manufacturing operation with an on-site bakery to produce fresh crusts. The site also houses Palermo’s corporate offices and Pizzeria 3301, which serves up the Palermo’s pizza experience from an Italian wood-fired oven.
COOKIE DOUGH & BROWNIE BITS FOR ICE CREAM Denali Ingredients LLC is a manufacturer that produces ingredients for ice cream, including cookie dough, brownie bits, chocolate flakes, chocolate swirls and fruit swirls. The company also makes the famous Moose Tracks fudge on behalf of its sister company, Denali Moose Tracks. Denali employs 125 people and has been growing steadily since the company was formed in 2006. It now has two manufacturing facilities, with a third underway (scheduled to open in early 2019), all in New Berlin.
MEDICAL IMAGING DEVICES GE Healthcare has five manufacturing facilities, a distribution center and 10 other sites in Wisconsin. GE Healthcare’s new LOGIQ E10 Ultrasound system, made in Wauwatosa, can process an amount of data equivalent to playing two entire DVDs in just one second in real-time.
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COOL S TUFF SODA Sprecher Brewing Co. was founded in 1985 by Randy Sprecher, who established Milwaukee’s first craft brewery. It is housed in a renovated former elevator cab factory in Glendale. In its lab, Sprecher brews nine soda flavors, including cherry-cran, lo-cal root beer and grape, among others. It also brews five hard sodas, three ciders and 16 beers. Sprecher puts “firebrewed” on its packaging because it still brews in a hand-built, gas-fired brew kettle. Fun fact: Sprecher’s tanks are purchased from Wisconsin dairies.
GARBAGE DISPOSALS & HOT WATER DISPENSERS In 1927, the world’s first garbage disposal was invented by architect John Hammes, just a few blocks from the current InSinkErator world headquarters in Racine. Now, millions of InSinkErator garbage disposals are manufactured each year. InSinkErator also makes hot water dispensers for home use, which can produce up to 100 cups of near-boiling water per hour. The company has 1,000 employees globally.
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PERFORMANCE BICYCLES In 1976, Trek was founded to meet the demand for U.S.made high-performance bikes. Today, in its Waterloo facility, not far from the original barn it began in, designers and researchers are building some of the best bikes available. Millions of people ride Trek bikes in hundreds of countries around the world. The company has about 2,000 employees, about half of whom are in Wisconsin. At the beginning, Trek’s founders Dick Burke and Bevil Hogg debated what to call their new bicycle company. Hogg liked Kestrel, after the bird of prey. Burke preferred Trek because it called forth travel and adventure.
KITCHEN APPLIANCES High-end appliance brands Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove come right out of Madison. Founded in 1945, Sub-Zero makes refrigeration, freezer and wine storage products. With the acquisition of Wolf Range Co. in 2000, Sub-Zero Group Inc. added residential cooking appliances, with products including ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, warming drawers and ventilation equipment. In 2018, Sub-Zero Group launched the Cove brand of dishwashers. Cove joins Sub-Zero and Wolf to make a complete kitchen family of appliances.
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COOL S TUFF
FAC TORIES OF THE FUTURE LCD SCREENS Right now in Mount Pleasant, Foxconn Technology Group is building the first LCD screen manufacturing facility in the United States. The Taiwanese company will bring with it thousands of jobs for tomorrow’s workers to fill. This long-term project is immense, with the potential to impact Wisconsin’s manufacturing landscape to become one of the most high-tech in the world.
GUMMY BEARS Everybody loves these cute, chewy treats from Germany’s Haribo. Its new gummy bear factory will be Haribo’s first U.S. manufacturing site. It is slated to be built in Pleasant Prairie, with construction to start in 2019. Life in southeastern Wisconsin just got sweeter!
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CAUTION TAPE Empire Level employs more than 200 people at its facilities in Mukwonago, where products have been proudly made in the USA since 1919. Empire makes a full line of barricade tape and underground tape used primarily by construction crews and law enforcement. In one year, Empire makes enough caution tape to circle the globe 16 times. It sells its products in more than 50 countries worldwide.
SHEETROCK USG Corp. is a manufacturer of building products with a plant in Walworth. For more than 115 years, Chicago-based USG has developed wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing and roofing materials for homes and buildings. It has almost 7,000 employees across North America and operations around the world. USG wallboard is engineered for durability and mold resistance and is well-recognized in the construction industry.
SAILBOAT ACCESSORIES Harken Inc. is an international manufacturer of performance sailing hardware headquartered in Pewaukee. Peter and Olaf Harken started the company 50 years ago in the Lake Country of southeastern Wisconsin. Harken has grown into a global company with group offices around the world and distribution in 48 countries. Harken gear is used at events including America’s Cup, the Volvo Ocean Race and the Olympics.
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COOL S TUFF ICE CREAM Purple Door Ice Cream produces smallbatch ice cream using quality local and natural ingredients. Milwaukee-based Purple Door is committed to social and environmental responsibility. Its community initiative, Milk for Milwaukee, provides fresh milk to area homeless shelters. Flavor ingredients include topof-the-line cocoas, liqueurs, coffee beans, teas, spices, and fresh and seasonal fruits.
BRACES Not all of us are blessed with prefect grins, but American Orthodontics can help. The Sheboygan company produces the instruments, braces and materials orthodontic specialists use to shape up those smiles. American Orthodontics is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of orthodontic treatment supplies, distributed in more than 100 countries. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Sheboygan, with more than 700 employees globally.
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INDUSTRIAL BRUSHES Schaefer Brush is an industrial brush manufacturer that has been in business for more than 115 years in Waukesha. Schaefer specializes in tradesman quality twist-in-wire brushes for use in HVAC/refrigeration, plumbing and metalworking applications. The company is an industry leader in providing cleaning and deburring solutions for tough applications.
CHEESE Sargento Foods is a family-owned and -operated business headquartered in Plymouth, the same community where the company was founded in 1953. Sargento has additional Wisconsin facilities in Elkhart Lake, Kiel and Hilbert, and employs approximately 1,800 people. Best known for packaged shredded, sliced and snack natural cheeses, Sargento also provides cheeses, appetizers and sauces to restaurants and other food manufacturers.
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SAL ARY S TATS
the
Co$t of Living WHEN YOU HAVE A JOB, you will earn an income. What you can spend depends on the amount of money you make. Based on your salary (12 months of earnings), you can estimate what you can afford to put toward monthly expenses. A basic rule of good personal budgeting is to spend less than you earn. Many expenses are required: Mortgage or rent, utilities, insurance, transportation costs and medical expenses, as well as taxes. A credit card or student loans are also required monthly expenditures. If you stay within your estimated budget, you will have money left over at the end of the month. Use this to pay down debt and build your savings. Ideally, you’ll have a savings account you build up for unexpected expenses, vacations and holiday gifts,
Budget Basics:
Gain financial control of your life!
or maybe for a car or house. After required expenses are covered and savings account contributions are made, you can use the money remaining for “discretionary expenses,” a.k.a. fun!
MONTHLY BUDG ET FOR A SING LE PE RS ON IN S OUTHEASTE RN WIS CONSIN Housing (Studio apartment/utilities)............................... $611 Food........................................................................... $245 Transportation (car payments, gas, insurance, transit, maintenance)...................... $733 Health care (insurance, out-of-pocket costs)...................... $394 Personal care (clothes, hair)/ household (phone/internet)..............................$346 Taxes (state, federal, FICA)................................$466 TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES ...........................$2,795
ANNUAL COST OF LIVING.......................... $33,540 (Source: Economic Policy Institute budget calculator for Milwaukee/Waukesha/West Allis metro area.)
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Median Salaries of Hot Jobs Check out the income for these positions in demand for southeastern Wisconsin to see what you would be able to afford on their salaries.
BUSINESS HR specialist $52,230 ($4,352.50/month)
Fun Money!
Administrative assistant $47,170 ($3,930.83/month)
Here are some estimated costs of discretionary budget items.
MANUFACTURING
Based on your monthly income, how long will you have to save to afford your desired goal?
Machinist $41,250 ($3,437.50/month) Manufacturing manager $94,670 ($7,889.16/month)
ENGINEERING Mechanical engineer $71,190 ($5,932.50/month) Industrial engineer $73,290 ($6,107.50/month)
Dinner out ($50) Movie ($20) Concert tickets ($90) Kayak ($150) Skydiving ($250) Bicycle ($350) Tablet ($425)
TRADES Construction laborer $36,960 ($3,080/month) Electrician $58,160 ($4,846.67/month)
TV ($435) Musical instrument & lessons ($1,000) Sofa ($2,000) ATV ($7,500)
HUMAN SERVICES
Trip to Europe ($4,500)
Social worker $44,430 ($3,702.50/month) Nursing assistant $27,000 ($2,250/month)
Motorcycle ($10,000) Camper ($15,000) Vacation home down payment ($20,000)
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STUFF OVERVIEW
YOUR GARAGE
blown up
Harley-Davidson Inc. is headquartered in Milwaukee.
Did you know many common items found in our garages are made in Wisconsin? For work or play, Wisconsin brings the best in tools and toys to us.
Air compressors for multiple uses are built by Rolair Systems at its facility in Hustisford.
Snap-on Inc. manufactures a number of tools at its Kenosha facility.
Generac Power Systems Inc., headquartered in Waukesha, has designed, engineered and manufactured backup generators like the GP3000i inverter generator since 1959. 24 / STUFF ž BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
The iconic green and yellow John Deere lawn tractors used by farmers and homeowners are manufactured at Deere & Co.’s plant in Horicon.
Empire Level makes professional-grade levels of all kinds for the construction industry at its plant in Mukwonago.
Trek Bicycle Corp. is headquartered in Waterloo, with an assembly plant in Whitewater.
JOBS BLOWN UP NOW HIRING AT … ROLAIR SYSTEMS IN HUSTISFORD ASSEMBLER - $14-$19/HOUR Responsible for assembling air compressor models, sub-assembly of components, and testing assembled units for quality and accuracy. Qualifications: Familiarity with assembly tools and equipment. NOW HIRING AT … SNAP-ON INC. IN KENOSHA
The Simplicity Signature Series Dual Stage Snow Blower is made at Briggs & Stratton Corp.’s Wauwatosa plant
MANUFACTURING ENGINEER $28-$43/HOUR Provide manufacturing support to make sure products are manufactured in accordance with proper processes, methods and routings. Qualifications: Bachelor’s in manufacturing engineering or industrial engineering, two to four years manufacturing plant experience in a metal machining environment. COLLEGE INTERN – COMPUTERAIDED DRAFTING - $18-26/HOUR Provide design/drafting support to engineers; create drawings in AutoCAD from scanned images; and maintain drawings, files and record logs. Qualifications: Completion of semester or more in CAD program. NOW HIRING AT … HARLEY-DAVIDSON INC. IN MILWAUKEE DESIGN ENGINEER - ACCESSORIES - $60,000-$84,000 ANNUAL SALARY Complete engineering projects and deliver these projects in an efficient manner. Direct support staff on department projects, and direct the design and development of outside vendors. Qualifications: Bachelor’s in mechanical engineering, a related technical field or a license to practice engineering by a recognized regulatory agency; three years of experience. E-COMMERCE CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST - $14-$22/HOUR Ensure positive customer experience on the website. Assist customers, provide technical support, and resolve product and order issues. Qualifications: Two years of experience in customer service and a high school diploma or equivalent. NOW HIRING AT … DEERE & CO. IN HORICON
At its Wauwatosa facility, Briggs & Stratton Corp. designs and engineers gas pressure washers such as this ELITE3300.
PRODUCTION PLANNER $24-$37/HOUR Communicate and work collaboratively with other departments to create a productive work flow. Ensure inventory is delivered on schedule. Fulfill incoming orders and close out old orders. Qualifications: Three years of experience with Microsoft Excel.
The companies that make all these awesome garage finds are looking for motivated and talented workers like YOU!
NOW HIRING AT … GENERAC POWER SYSTEMS INC. IN WAUKESHA WELDER - $10-$17/HOUR Perform MIG welding, electric or robotic welding equipment in the fabrication of parts to create a high-quality finished product. Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent, basic welding experience or training. MACHINE OPERATOR - $10-$13/ HOUR Accurately and efficiently manufacture parts utilizing a CNC machining center/ fabrication equipment under the direction of a supervisor. Qualifications: Must be able to read blueprints and diagrams, measure to the millimeter and operate other measurement tools. NOW HIRING AT … BRIGGS & STRATTON CORP. IN WAUWATOSA ROBOTIC WELDER $11-$15/HOUR Follow established procedures to operate production equipment. Inspect with micrometers or pressure gauges and chart for SPC gauge charting. Start up and monitor automated equipment with regular cleaning, stocking and unjamming. MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN $20-$41/HOUR Maintain, troubleshoot and repair electrical, electronic and mechanical problems throughout plant. Perform installation and repair of wiring, circuitry and machinery. Qualifications: Relevant experience a necessity. NOW HIRING AT … TREK BICYCLE CORP. IN WATERLOO TRAILS INTERN $15-$17/HOUR Perform regular trail maintenance and participate in trail construction projects throughout Trek’s extensive private trail system. Provide logistical support during events, patrol trails for trespassers. Qualifications: Experience with mountain bikes and small machinery a plus. Chainsaw safety, first aid and CPR certifications a must. SERVICE TECHNICIAN $13-$21/HOUR Build and repair all types of bikes for the show floor and for customers, and provide enthusiastic customer service and a strong work ethic. Qualifications: Bike shop experience appreciated. *as of June 2018, obtained from each company’s career page.
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CAREERSPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT ON: YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP WISCONSIN’S YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP program is for high school students who want hands-on learning at a worksite, along with classroom instruction. By being released from school during part of the day, YA students are using that time to work in the field, earn school credit, make money and get exposed to real-world work experiences. Requirements include that the student be in his or her junior or senior year of high school. Participants complete 450 hours of work-based learning and
two semesters of related classroom instruction. Schools try to match students with companies that have careers in their fields of interest. Most students are paid between minimum wage and $16 an hour, depending on the company and job. Students are allowed to leave school in the last two hours of the day to get a jump start on their work day. They also learn resume writing, interviewing and other job skills they will use in their career while earning high school credit that can be used toward graduation. Many students who take advan-
BEN AND PETER AT KOHLER CO. BEN NICHOL S, 19, works as a facilities maintenance tradesperson support at Kohler Co. in Kohler. He started at Kohler in the youth apprentice program while in high school. Ben Ben Nichols knew he didn’t want to go to college, and the trades appealed to him because he had enjoyed working with his grandfather building houses and had a summer job at a heating and cooling contractor.
He took several technical education classes in high school and then, in his junior year, applied to the youth apprentice program through an area technical college. During the summer before his senior year, Ben worked eight hours a day in Kohler’s Facilities Maintenance department. When school started, he worked three hours a day at Kohler and spent the rest of the day in class at his high school. At work, Ben was exposed to many different maintenance skills, including masonry, carpentry and painting. And before he graduated from high school, he already had a full-time job offer from Kohler. Now, Ben enjoys his work because it’s always different and he’s always learning from his co-workers. “A lot of the guys I work with have been doing this work for so long, so if I’m stumped by something I can ask them. This has worked out well for me. I’m very happy,” he said.
PETER GROSS, 18, spent his senior year at Oostburg High School helping create new materials from Kohler’s industrial waste. During his apprenticeship on Kohler’s Kitchen Product Engineering team, he worked alongside a cross-functional team Ben Nichols (right)
26 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee XXX X, 2017
(Above) Peter Gross
of passionate associates in Kohler’s WasteLab creating ceramic tiles made from 100 percent waste materials, gaining unique hands-on experience that will prepare him for his future career. After he finishes working at Kohler at the end of the summer, Peter will attend the University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan in the fall and plans to pursue an electrical or mechanical engineering degree. “When I started at Kohler, I thought I’d be sitting behind a computer all day, but it’s been far from that,” Peter said. “I started out in the lab pressing tiles and spraying glaze, and now I’m diving into firing tile, modifying glaze formulas and testing final products. It’s been great.” n
YOUTH APPRENTICESHIPS ... in their own words
WILLOW AT PRECISION PLUS, ELKHORN “Hey, my name’s WILLOW RUT ZEN from Elkhorn Area High School. I plan to go to college to become a mechanical engineer. Many people think that a shop is no place for a girl, but I’d like to tell you that is totally false! “Not only do I spend most of my free time working on projects in the shop, but I also spend time working with my horses. I became interested in working for Precision Plus in Elkhorn when my technical education teacher told me about a Youth Apprenticeship opportunity. “I jumped at the chance and landed myself the best job I have ever had. Not only do they treat me like I’m an adult, but they also help me learn the skills it takes to be successful in a manufacturing facility. I’m thankful that they took me on as a Youth Apprentice and that I get to work with the great team at Precision Plus.” n
JACOB AND A ARON AT TOTAL MECHANICAL, PEWAUKEE
GAVIN ETZEL, GPS EDUCATION PARTNERS CL ASS OF 2016
JACOB JOHNSON and A ARON MESCHING both signed on this year for an apprenticeship at Total Mechanical in Pewaukee. Arrowhead Union High School District honors the level of commitment required with a signing ceremony, similar to sports teams signing up players. At the event, the school, the business, and friends and family can witness and support the student who is signing up for the program. Jacob: “I know that college is not for me and I also know that my greatest strength is working with my hands, so I feel like Total Mechanical is a good fit for me. I think it is important to be working as a team and to be able to work together to get something done, and in the interview I saw it was important to them, as well. I hope to learn about the workforce and what is required to work for a company like Total. I also want to learn about HVAC.” Aaron: “I decided to apply for the apprenticeship with Total Mechanical because they were offering a plumbing position and I am interested in pursuing a plumbing career. Metals fabrication helped me, because in that class, we read plans and had to make parts to the specs of those plans. We also did a soldering project in metals fab, which will help because plumbers solder. Through this apprenticeship, I hope to learn how plumbing works and how to properly fix it.” n
Machine setup operator II at Lakeside Manufacturing Inc., West Milwaukee “I started at Lakeside Manufacturing in 2014 after joining the program from West Allis Central High School. I did not enjoy my regular high school because the work was too easy for me. I have always enjoyed working with my hands as a hobby, so the GPS program seemed like a good opportunity. “I worked for Lakeside as a machine operator for a year in my first rotation. After that, I went to Alto-Shaam, where I got to operate their laser and do some assembly. I rejoined Lakeside in spring of 2016 after I graduated high school. I have been promoted three times since fall 2016. I am currently pursuing a setup III opportunity, which is the most advanced machine setup operator. “Joining an adult work environment at the age of 16 was not the easiest. It was also difficult fitting all of the work in to two hours of classroom time at various times, depending on the material. The schoolwork was not easier than regular high school. “I work on first shift, so I work 4 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. We work more overtime in summer, so my Fridays are either off or I am working overtime. After work, I go home and relax. “I am thinking of going back to school this fall to pursue an electrical engineering technician degree. It is a two-year program. I would like to continue to work into a setup III position in the meantime. “My tips for job seekers: Show up for work. It’s all you have to do. I don’t know why some people don’t get to work. Be respectful of others who are taking the time to teach you.” n
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C AREER SPOTLIGHT
MOST WANTED POSITIONS Here are the top jobs companies are hiring for in southeastern Wisconsin. Workforce gaps include skilled trades and STEM-based careers. Today’s economy has great need for manufacturing workers who demonstrate an affinity for science, technology, engineering and math, or like to build, design and create.
1. Human resources
specialist 2. Marketing specialist 3. Administrative assistant 4. Manufacturing machine operator 5. Manufacturing manager 6. Machinist 7. Sales representative 8. Office manager 9. Quality controller 10. Accountant 11. Industrial engineer 12. Technical sales representative 13. Mechanical engineer 14. Receptionist/ information clerk 15. Customer service representative 16. Industrial machinery mechanic 17. Purchaser 18. Engineering tech 19. Shipping and receiving clerk 20. Mechanical engineering tech 21. Cost estimator 22. Industrial engineering tech 23. Public relations specialist 24. Welder
COLLEGE INTERNSHIP
25. Logistics specialist 26. Computer network
specialist 27. Account manager 28. Heavy equipment technician 29. Heavy equipment operator 30. IT project manager 31. Bookkeeper 32. Financial manager 33. Electrical engineer 34. Custodian 35. Market research analyst 36. Business systems analyst 37. Electrical engineering tech 38. Computer support person 39. Cook 40. Recruiter 41. Construction laborer 42. Construction manager 43. Electrician 44. Tool and die maker 45. Research analyst (financial) 46. Social worker 47. Computer software engineer 48. Corporate trainer 49. Crane operator 50. E-business consultant
Source : March 2018 – Inspire Southeast Wisconsin Career Engagement Survey
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SPOTLIGHT ON:
Ross Kluczinske Engineering intern Desert Aire LLC, Germantown “I’m a mechanical engineering student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Currently, I’m being trained in using Solidworks computer-aided design software to modify any errors in engineering drawings that depict how the units should be assembled. “Five to 10 years after graduation, I’d like to be in a career where I have the opportunity to work with renewable energy. “This internship has given me an opportunity to learn some more general engineering skills, such as working as part of an engineering team and writing technical documents such as work instructions. “I’ve gained experience in using different kinds of engineering software. I’ve become more proficient at using Microsoft Excel, and I’ve learned Solidworks and Microsoft Access. These skills will be helpful regardless of what specific field I choose to work in, whether that be HVAC, renewable energy or another field altogether. “I would encourage any current high school students who are considering engineering to take as much math and science as you can in high school. Be sure to focus on not just knowing and memorizing what you are being taught, but understanding how and why it works. “Writing skills can often be forgotten when discussing engineering, but they are very important as they are a primary means of communication. The ability to write clearly and concisely with good grammar is necessary when working as an engineer.” n
What Kind of Engineer Are YOU? Match the type of engineer to the occupation. 1. Mechanical 2. Electrical 3. Civil 4. Biomedical
5. Computer 6. Chemical 7. Environmental 8. Aerospace
9. Agricultural 10. Industrial
a. Researches, designs and tests software and operating systems. b. Develops instruments, techniques and devices for doctors to use to diagnose and treat patients. c. Uses computer programs to design products, components or electrical systems such as in phones and power generators. d. Designs, builds and tests aircraft, spacecraft and missiles, as well as engines and vehicle control systems. e. Uses math and science to calculate if structure designs for bridges, dams, roads, railways and sewers are possible and safe. f. Uses math and science to protect air, soil and water quality and assess impact of projects on natural resources. g. Develops processes and products for industries such as plastics, food, drug, energy, and oil and gas. h. Designs machines and mechanical systems using computer-aided design software and science. i. Studies companies and manufacturing processes to find ways to make them more efficient j. Uses knowledge in biology and engineering to help farmers raise better crops through efficient use of soil, water and resources ANSWER KEY: 1) h, 2) c, 3) e, 4) b, 5) a, 6) g, 7) f, 8) d, 9) j, 10) i
INDUSTRY 4.0: DIGITAL DISRUPTION In the coming years, Wisconsin companies will increase their layers of technology in all they do. For example, while it used to be just mechanical technology knowledge was required by factory workers, the manufacturing workforce now needs a layer of data analytics knowledge. According to Matt Kirchner of Lab Midwest, the state is poised to be at the epicenter of Industry 4.0 technology due to the high number of manufacturers in Wisconsin and the arrival of Foxconn Technology Group, the nation’s first LCD manufacturing facility. Industry 4.0 moves beyond automation and robotics to include data exchanges and semi-autonomous industrial techniques to support a connected enterprise. Some of the jobs include quality engineer, robot programmer, cloud architect and interface developer, to name a few. “The disruptive impact these technologies will have is important for our students to understand,” said Laura Schmidt of the School District of New Berlin. “Simply put, technological literacy matters across all industries.” The M7 Regional Talent Partnership’s NextGen Learning team is focused on expanding programming that supports entrepreneurial thinking and technological literacy. Innovative thinking and critical problem solving are important for all career pathways. n
spotlight on:
Women in STEM CLARE FRIGO | project manager
Johnson Controls International plc, Power Solutions, Milwaukee
Clare’s diary 7 a.m.
I get to work every day at 7 a.m. Next, I take a look at my calendar and create a specific list of what I want to accomplish today.
8 a.m. DEGREE: Bachelor’s in chemical engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology CLARE’S PATH WITH JOHNSON CONTROLS SO FAR: Customer engineer (August 2013 to November 2014) Product engineer (November 2014 to June 2016) Project manager (June 2016 to present) “I work on a number of battery-level design projects. This usually entails analyzing the requirements, capabilities and performance of new and existing products. I have the opportunity to work with many functional groups outside of engineering to make sure we are aligned with the business and customer needs. “I get excited by the opportunity to work on projects and products that will eventually have an impact on people’s daily life. Most people don’t realize the impact a car battery has until it doesn’t work anymore. It may not be the most glamorous business, but it is a pretty complex product that has interesting chemical properties affected by a multi-step manufacturing process. “I’m inspired and motivated by the thought that my generation is going to be leading companies like Johnson Controls very soon. We’ll get to decide the direction of the company at some point, so my goal is to learn as much as I can now to make more informed decisions in the future.” n
I head to a team meeting for a project that is improving the life of our battery. I walk out of the meeting with a few assignments that I’ll work on throughout the week.
8:30 a.m.
I work at my desk on a presentation for the vice president of engineering and product development, MaryAnn Wright.
10 a.m.
I attend the Women Resource Network Business Impact Committee meeting. This is an initiative that revolves around the importance of attracting, developing and retaining women at Johnson Controls.
11:30 a.m.
I get lunch with a group of people that I started with as interns. Once or twice a week, we get together to catch up.
1 p.m.
I start data analysis at my desk for a strategy deployment project I’m leading. I was selected to work on this project two weeks ago so I’m currently defining the scope of the project.
2 p.m.
I meet with the working team for an ongoing project that is measuring our product’s performance to make sure that we continue to meet our customers’ expectations.
3:30 p.m.
I get back to my desk and respond to emails. I start to work on action items that I’ve been assigned throughout the day.
5 p.m.
I head to the on-site Johnson Controls gym to work out before going home for the night. n
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C AREER SPOTLIGHT women in
STEM SAM BILLETDEAUX | electrical engineer II Milwaukee Tool, Brookfield
“I graduated from Mukwonago High School in 2011. In 2015, I selected my I received my bachelor’s in electrical engineering from Milwaukee School of Engineering. I selected my major based major based on on my experiences on my high school FIRST Robotics Competition team. my experiences “Over my four years in college, I held three internships at two different companies to learn more about different opon my high school portunities available to EEs. I also served in multiple leadership roles in MSOE’s Society of Women Engineers section, FIRST Robotics building up my skills and making many connections along the way. “During my senior year, I was a member of one of the MilCompetition team. waukee Tool-sponsored senior design teams, which allowed me to learn more about the company and was ultimately the deciding factor when choosing to accept a position on the Electrical Engineering Advanced Development team in the spring of 2015. “On the EE Advanced Development team, I work cross-disciplinarily with stakeholders in power tool projects, including the motor engineers, mechanical engineers, project leaders and marketing. I love that half of my work week is usually spent in the lab doing hands-on work such as building prototypes or completing initial feasibility tests on new technology. “I really enjoy the culture at Milwaukee Tool. Everyone is great to work with, and I feel like I am always working with the best of the best, all trying to create the best power tools in the industry. “I would recommend to students interested in engineering to take any opportunities they have, whether it is STEM activities, internships or job shadows, to learn firsthand what options are out there as an engineer in any given field. “All engineering fields continue to change as new technologies come to market. Learning does not stop when you get your degree; there are always new advancements on the horizon that keep everyone on their toes.” n 30 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
SCHOOLS from K-12 to the Wisconsin Technical College System to four-year universities are refocusing on STEM skills used in problem-based learning. This is helping students build career awareness for the future. Accelerated certifications have been put together through business and post-secondary collaboration. Retraining and bootcamp programs are cropping up, while some corporations hire private firms to develop retraining programs specific to their companies. A registered apprenticeship is being developed for IT to focus on filling the need in the workforce. The School of Applied Technologies at WCTC is now offering a supply chain certificate and an industry 4.0 certification. With the advent of the Internet of Things, network security is an ever-evolving subject, as things have moved beyond just running antivirus programs on PCs. The two-year network security specialist program at Waukesha County Technical College has a higher degree of focus on elements related to locking down the network and addressing security threats. WCTC also has a new mechatronics technician registered apprenticeship. Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field of science that includes a combination of mechanical engineering, electronics, computer engineering, telecommunications engineering, systems engineering and control engineering. These credits would also apply to an associate’s degree and are able to be transferred to many fouryear colleges and universities. n
women in
FUTURE FACTORIES
STEM
Key vocab to learn for tomorrow’s manufacturing careers
ALY ZIMMEL | applications developer
Lanex LLC, Brookfield
CYBER SECURITY
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
DIGITAL PRODUCT MANAGEMENT
DATA AND ANALYTICS ENTERPRISE ARCHITECTURE
TECHNOLOGIES
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING
ALGORITHMIC THINKING CROSS-CLASSROOM
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE 4D PRINTING
MEDICAL
LEARNING
BLOCKCHAIN
VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS/ CHATBOTS INTERNET OF THINGS
5G
NETWORKS
CRYPTOCURRENCIES SMART ROBOTICS
SMART WORKPLACES
MECHATRONICS
CLOUD COMPUTING
BIG DATA
5G WIRELESS AUTONOMOUS TRANSPORT
CYBER-PHYSICAL SYSTEMS VIRTUAL REALITY
“From a young age, I was interested in computers and I always enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together: anything that required a lot of logic. “I finally made the decision to enter Waukesha County Technical College’s IT program for a web and software development degree. I was immediately hooked. “My biggest influence in school was my Java instructor Jim Lombardo, who has recently retired from teaching at WCTC. The first day in his class, I was the only woman in the room. He looked at all the other students and then at me and said, ‘I’m glad to see there is a lady in here. Sometimes we get so stuck in our ways, and women have a fascinating way of looking at a problem. It gives all of us the chance to look at our work from a different point of view.’” “My first taste of a real programming job was through WCTC’s IS Project course, which allows students to work with businesses in the community to develop webpages or applications for their companies. We were able to go through the whole process for project design, management, development and deployment in a real-world setting to help us prepare for our future careers. “Out of all of the places I interviewed, Lanex was my favorite. It’s a small company, friendly environment with open workspace. There is something extremely im-
portant to me about being comfortable in the place you work. “Lanex owner Matt McCoy offered me the chance to work on a relatively new largescale, long-term project as an integration Java developer. I spent the first year of my career at Lanex constantly learning better ways of doing something to conform to another company’s best practices and to allow myself to be changeable. I work to develop integration for eye care order processing software. “I’ve developed almost 12 integrations in the two years I’ve been with Lanex and have constantly been kept busy. Originally when I started working on this project, I was just an intern; I had another developer in Lanex who worked above me. When he left the company, I was given project lead and was promoted to applications developer. I am now the sole de-
I spent the first year of my career at Lanex constantly learning better ways of doing something to conform to another company’s best practices and to allow myself to be changeable. veloper on this project. “Programming is like a puzzle except there is no picture on the pieces. Our job is to paint that picture on each piece individually based on information given to us and then put it all together. It’s a fascinating combination of logic and creativity combined together. “Remember, you can do more than you think you can. It’s hard to believe in ourselves sometimes. As young people, we are told so often that we are less than, not good enough, don’t try hard enough, are lazy, don’t try to learn new things. Take ownership of your work. Whether good or bad, it shows you are actively trying to improve yourself.” n STUFF biztimes.com / 31
WANT TO BE AN
By Waukesha County Business Alliance
THERE ARE MANY ROADS TO SUCCESS. Maybe you enroll in an engineering class in high school, if it’s available. Take out student loans to go to a four-year college with a good engineering school. Get an engineering internship. Graduate in four or five years. Get a job with one of the companies you interned with. Pay back your student loans. Is that what you think your path will look like? Have you considered doing it a different way? 32 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
Companies today are eager to attract talent, from engineers to workers on the shop floor. While engineering internships and positions require some schooling or experience, most companies will hire high school students to work on the shop floor. It’s a win-win – you gain valuable production experience that can form the baseline of your engineering education (depending on the type of engineering you choose), and the company gains a dedicated worker who can move up the corporate ladder with additional training. Also, understanding how things are made from the production side may give you a leg up on your fellow engineering students at school. “If I were interviewing engineers and had the choice of hiring someone with or without shop floor experience, I would jump at hiring the person with shop experience,” said Jim Zaiser, president and chief executive officer of Hydro-Thermal Corp. in Waukesha. “That hands-on shop floor experience tells me they have more than just a theoretical grasp of good design. They have valuable insight on how a piece moves through the manufacturing process, how design influences the ease and speed of manufacturing, decreases rework and waste, and much more.” If you’re looking for a summer job during high school anyway, why not get one that will help propel your career forward? Plus, these jobs often pay higher than minimum wage and it’s a great way to get your foot in the door at a company. “Weldall is committed to working with high school students as they transition into a career because we see the value in creating a pipeline for the future of our workforce,” said Alesia Butera, human resources manager for Weldall Manufacturing Inc. in Waukesha.
“Once they graduate, we place them in apprenticeship programs and, from the shop floor, our employees have been promoted into careers within engineering, quality and management.” After high school graduation, you have at least two choices: »» Go on to a four-year school, using the knowledge you gained in high school to form the basis of your understanding of the engineering field and help you decide what type of engineering interests you; »» Get an associate’s degree from your local technical college while continuing to work part-time. The company you’re working for may be willing to pick up all or part of the tab for your associate’s degree and then, when you’re ready to go on to get your bachelor’s, may help pay for that as well. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement. It makes sense – they’re investing in training and upskilling their workforce. If you show yourself to be a valuable employee, a company may do what it can to help you develop yourself. Luke started as a CNC machinist on the shop floor of Hydro-Thermal about three years ago. Because of that experience, he has since become one of the star employees in the company’s mechanical engineering department. Although Luke didn’t take advantage of Hydro-Thermal’s tuition reimbursement program, other engineers at the company have. As an added bonus, working on the production floor of a local manufacturing company is a perfect way to see if the industry is right for you before spending any money on a college degree. At the end of this magazine are profiles of manufacturing companies in the area that want to hire you. Give some of them a call – you might be glad you did! n
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Construction The Oconomowoc High School Building Trades III class students partnered with their teacher Steven Olson, Tim O’Brien Homes employees and trade partners to build a home. Through this experience, students were able to identify future career possibilities. With the high demand for employees to fill trade jobs, it is important for students to consider a future in this field. Bringing the classes in is an important part of the building process and gives students real-world experience.
The great thing about “ our program here and the partnership we have with Tim O’Brien Homes is how many different trades we are able to get the kids real
”
working experiences in.
– Steven Olson, technology education/ building trades teacher, Oconomowoc High School
DATA POINT
CARPENTERS
Employment of construction laborers and helpers is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations in the near future. Employment in trades is expected to
ELEC TRICIANS
34 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
MASONRY PLUMBING HVACR
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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 southeastern Wisconsin.
WISCONSIN’S YOUTH OPTIONS
WISCONSIN AHEC HEALTH CAREERS
dpi.wi.gov/dual-enrollment/youth-options Wisconsin’s youth options program allows public high school juniors and seniors to take postsecondary courses for credit.
wihealthcareers.org Information on health careers in Wisconsin.
S T U FF FO R H I G H SC H O O L STUDENTS
S T U FF FO R C A R E E R PL A N N I N G CAREER INFONET
CAREER CRUISING
careercruising.com All Wisconsin students can access career-related assessments, career and college profiles, and information about financial aid and employment.
careeronestop.org Information for career exploration, training and jobs.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION – ACADEMIC & CAREER PLANNING
bls.gov/careeroutlook Government-provided data and information on occupations and industries, pay and benefits.
dpi.wi.gov/acp Equips students with tools to make informed choices about postsecondary education and training. DREAM IT. DO IT. – WISCONSIN
dreamitdoitwi.com Dream it. Do It’s focus is to increase awareness of the career opportunities available in manufacturing. MILWAUKEE NARI FOUNDATION
milwaukeenarifoundation.org Scholarships for students in the home improvement and remodeling industry. SkillsUSA
skillsusa.org A partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. WCTC DUAL ENROLLMENT ACADEMY
wctc.edu/dual-enroll Trains high school seniors in high-demand fields while they earn college credits through WCTC. WISCONSIN DUAL ENROLLMENT
WISCONSIN TECHCONNECT
wisconsintechconnect.com Statewide online employment system for Wisconsin Technical College students and graduates. WisCONOMY
wisconomy.com Job search and employment information for the state of Wisconsin.
CAREER OUTLOOK
CAREER PLANNING FOR YOUTH
S T U FF FO R E M PLOY E R S BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS
wctc.edu/current-students/career-connections/career-planning-youth.php Various career assessments focused on youth.
GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON WORKFORCE INVESTMENT
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD IN MILWAUKEE COUNT Y
KENOSHA AREA BUSINESS ALLIANCE
employmilwaukee.org Resources for job-seekers, as well as employers. JOB CENTER OF WISCONSIN
jobcenterofwisconsin.com Current job openings as reported by employers throughout Wisconsin. JOB UP WISCONSIN
jobupwisconsin.com Answers to questions on career planning, marketing yourself, job search and emotional support. LIVECAREER
livecareer.com Articles on job search, salary negotiation and career advice.
wi-cwi.org kaba.org METROPOLITAN BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
mbaonline.org METROPOLITAN MILWAUKEE ASSOCIATION OF COMMERCE
mmac.org MILWAUKEE 7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP
mke7.com NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS
nahb.org OZAUKEE COUNT Y ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
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.
MY SKILLS MY FUTURE
WISCONSIN EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNIT Y PROGRAMS
onetonline.org Job and skills search tools.
SHEBOYGAN COUNT Y ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP.
dpi.wi.gov/weop Provides college and career readiness programs, resources and support for young adults.
WAYUP
sheboygancountyedc.com
wayup.com Advice, tips and articles for students to assist in getting hired.
SOCIET Y FOR HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
36 / STUFF BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
myskillsmyfuture.org Compare careers, find training and search for jobs. O*NET ONLINE
ozaukeebusiness.org RACINE COUNT Y ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP.
rcedc.org
shrm.org
WASHINGTON COUNT Y WORKFORCE ALLIANCE
wcwfa.org WAUKESHA COUNT Y BUSINESS ALLIANCE
waukesha.org WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
dwd.wisconsin.gov WISCONSIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP.
inwisconsin.com WISCONSIN FAST FORWARD GRANTS
wisconsinfastforward.com WISCONSIN MANUFACTURERS & COMMERCE
wmc.org WISCONSIN MANUFACTURING EXTENSION PARTNERSHIP
wmep.org
OT H E R USE FU L O R G A N I Z AT I O N S ADVANCING AI WISCONSIN
advancingaiwisconsin.com Grassroots initiative to raise awareness of digital disruption technologies in Wisconsin businesses. DYNAMIC WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
dwfs.us Workforce training, consulting, management and administrative services. GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON WORKFORCE INVESTMENT
wi-cwi.org Assists the governor in creating innovative approaches to developing Wisconsin’s workforce. INNOVATION IN MILWAUKEE (MIKE)
gmconline.org/initiatives/mike Collaboration among corporations, talent networks and schools to foster an innovative workforce in Milwaukee. INSPIRE SOUTHEAST WISCONSIN
H I G H E R E D S T U FF
WEDC’S SEED ACCELERATOR PROGRAM
wedc.org/programs-and-resources/seed-accelerator Supplies grants to eligible communities and organizations to support startups in Wisconsin.
GATEWAY TECHNICAL COLLEGE
WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
gtc.edu
racinecounty.com/government/workforce-solutions Offers services that produce work-ready employees for business and community growth. WORKFORCE TRAINING GRANTS
wedc.org/programs-and-resources/workforce-training-grants Grant funding for businesses to increase job skills of the business’ employees. WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
dwd.wisconsin.gov Labor market information for the state of Wisconsin.
S T U FF FO R E D U C ATO R S FAB LAB GRANTS
wedc.org/programs-andresources/fabrication-laboratories-grant/ Funds to buy equipment used for fabrication instruction for elementary, middle or high school students. FUTURE READY SCHOOLS
futureready.org Helps K-12 school leaders plan and implement personalized, research-based digital learning strategies. GPS EDUCATION PARTNERS
gpsed.org Manufacturing-specific, statewide Department of Workforce Development Youth Apprenticeship program. PATHWAYS WISCONSIN
dpi.wi.gov/pathways-wisconsin Education and training beyond high school, including early work experience, skills development and postsecondary credentials. PROJECT LEAD THE WAY
pltw.org Provides transformative learning experiences for K-12 students and teachers across the U.S.
TECHNIC A L COLLEGE S
MILWAUKEE AREA TECHNICAL COLLEGE
matc.edu MORAINE PARK TECHNICAL COLLEGE
morainepark.edu WAUKESHA COUNT Y TECHNICAL COLLEGE
wctc.edu
ENGINEERING PROGR A MS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & APPLIED SCIENCE
uwm.edu/engineering ENGINEERING AT CARTHAGE COLLEGE
carthage.edu/engineering MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
msoe.edu OPUS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
marquette.edu/engineering UW-PARKSIDE ENGINEERING MAJOR
uwp.edu/learn/programs/engineering.cfm
SPECI A L UNI V ERSIT Y PROGR A MS THE LUBAR ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER AT UNIVERSIT Y OF WISCONSINMILWAUKEE
uwm.edu/ideaschallenge/lubar-center For student entrepreneurs, faculty and community businesses to work on building new enterprises. MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING EARLY COLLEGE CREDIT PROGRAM
msoe.edu/academics/high-school-programs/ early-college-credit-program/ Enables students from area high schools to pursue college coursework at MSOE. MARQUETTE UNIVERSIT Y’S CENTER FOR SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
m7talentpartnership.org Online platform for businesses to interact with the future workforce.
SCHOOLS2SKILLS THROUGH THE WCBA
MILWAUKEE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADES COUNCIL
waukesha.org/workforce-development/employer-collaboratives/manufacturing-alliance/
milwbuildingtrades.org Partnership among local unions, community organizations, construction associations and industry leaders.
Waukesha County high school students have the opportunity to experience innovative technology at local manufacturers.
thecommonswi.com Mentorship and networking opportunities for students in southeastern Wisconsin.
REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP
STEM WISCONSIN
WISCONNECT INTERNSHIP COORDINATION
wistem.org STEM Wisconsin works to increase Wisconsin’s STEM leadership for workforce competitiveness and economic growth.
internshipwisconsin.com Connects employers and students interested in internships.
wisconsinapprenticeship.org Enables employers to build skills training systems while they learn a high-demand trade.
marquette.edu/business/supply-chain/index.php Trains students through real-world experience and applied learning in business and manufacturing. THE COMMONS
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C AREER FAIR
CAREER FAIR Career fairs provide an opportunity for job seekers to find positions and explore career paths they may not have considered. The most important things to remember are: BEFORE: Bring copies of your resume, dress in business casual and practice
Career Fair Calendar AUGUST SOURCEPOINT STAFFING ON-SITE RECRUITMENT
FALL PART-TIME JOB & INTERNSHIP FAIR
Aug. 11 & 25, 1 to 3 p.m
Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Job Center SE Suite A 2701 S. Chase Ave., Milwaukee
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Student Union Ballroom 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee
sourcepointstaffing.com
answers for the types of
DANE COUNTY REGIONAL JOB FAIR
questions that will come up.
Aug. 29, noon to 4 p.m.
DURING: Pay close attention to who you talk to, and always take business cards when they are offered. AFTER: Follow up with a phone call to the
SEPTEMBER
Alliant Energy Center 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison
JOB FAIR OF MILWAUKEE
uwm.edu/careerplan/event/fall-parttime-job-internship-fair/
HIRING EVENT Sept. 12, 9 a.m. to noon Rock County Job Center 1900 Center Ave., Janesville
Aug. 27, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
JEFFERSON COUNTY FALL JOB FAIR
Embassy Suites by Hilton 1200 S. Moorland Road, Brookfield
Sept. 19, 1 to 4 p.m.
catalystcareergroup.com/jobfair_ details.cfm/3645/WisconsinMilwaukee-August-27-2018
Fair Park Activity Center 503 N. Jackson Ave., Jefferson
18TH ANNUAL DIVERSITY EMPLOYMENT DAY
people and companies you
Sept. 20, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
connected with the next day to show your interest in their
Milwaukee County War Memorial Center 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee
company.
citycareerfair.com/2018-milwaukee/
38 / STUFF ž BizTimes Milwaukee FALL 2018
OCTOBER
DECEMBER
FALL HEALTH PROFESSIONS CAREER FAIR
INDUSTRY HIRING EVENT
Oct. 1, 3 to 6 p.m.
Dane County Job Center 1819 Aberg Ave., Madison
UWM Student Union Ballroom 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee
Dec. 5, 1 to 3 p.m.
uwm.edu/careerplan/event/ healthprofessions/
MANUFACTURING HIRING EVENT Oct. 10, 2 to 4 p.m. Community Actions Pathways 27 Eclipse Center, Beloit
BUSINESS EXPO AND JOB FAIR Oct. 16, 3 to 6 p.m. Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center 3456 Craig Road, Eau Claire eauclairechamber.org/business-expo-job-fair.html?utm_source=jobfairsin. com
FEBRUARY SPRING HEALTH PROFESSIONS CAREER FAIR Feb. 18, 3 to 6 p.m. UWM Student Union Ballroom 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee uwm.edu/careerplan/event/spring2019-health-professions-career-fair/
MADE CAREER EXPO Oct. 18 Waukesha County Technical College Gymnasium, Service Building 800 Main St., Pewaukee
NOVEMBER MILWAUKEE CAREER FAIR Nov. 8, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton 18155 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee
MARCH SPRING HEALTH PROFESSIONS CAREER FAIR March 2, 9 a.m. to noon UWM Student Union Ballroom 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee uwm.edu/careerplan/event/spring2019-education-career-fair/
jobfairsin.com
WISCONSIN BROADCASTERS OPEN HOUSE
HIRING EVENT
March 2, TBD
Nov. 14, 1 to 4 p.m.
Madison Marriott West 1313 John Q Hammond Drive, Middleton
Rock County Job Center 1900 Center Ave., Janesville
wi-broadcasters.org/events/studentseminar-2/
Career Fair Tips « «Always bring copies of
your resume and be ready to make your pitch.
« «Dress as you would for a formal job interview.
« «Keep track of who you
talk to and send follow-up emails STUFF biztimes.com / 39
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