Hardware Podcasts

BONUS: What Manufacturers Can Learn from Central Wisconsin's Workforce Strategy (LIVE from Wausau, WI)

Manufacturing Happy Hour · 5 Jun 2026 · 43m

What this episode covers

Chris Luecke hosts a live panel with Jim Waldron of Wausau Tile, John Peterson of Schuette Metals, Scott Mattmiller of Greenheck Group, Laura Strek of Imperial Industries, and Tom Felch of J&D Tube Benders to discuss the Central Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance's (CWIMA) workforce strategy. The leaders explain how they shifted from competing for talent to collaborating with K-12 schools, technical colleges, and each other to solve regional labor shortages through programs like the Heavy Metal Tour and youth apprenticeships. They highlight specific innovations, including AI-driven robotics at Wausau Tile and accessible automation at Schuette Metals, while emphasizing that retention relies on mentorship, flexible scheduling, and strong community ties.

Most relevant to

established companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Wausau Tile, Schuette Metals, Greenheck Group, Imperial Industries, J&D Tube Benders, Central Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance, Target, McDonald's, John Deere, Caterpillar, JLG Industries, U.S. Postal Service, NTC (North Technical College)
Also
AWS

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