Wisconsin companies sold over $209 billion in manufactured goods last year, accounting for just under 20 percent of the state’s GDP. But too few Wisconsinites know about the diversity of this production powerhouse, the state’s largest business association argues. A new poster, developed by the group, seeks to change that.
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), the combined state chamber of commerce and manufacturers association, released a Made in Wisconsin poster featuring 51 items manufactured or produced in Wisconsin. WMC, in partnership with BMO, unveiled the poster to promote and celebrate the state’s largest industry ahead of Manufacturing Month in October.
“Manufacturing is Wisconsin’s economic super sector,” explained Kurt R. Bauer, WMC President & CEO. “Wisconsin’s nearly 9,000 manufacturers generate $73.7 billion in economic activity each year.”
Bauer said that nearly 480,000 Wisconsinites, or one in six, work directly in manufacturing.
“These products represent the high-wage, high-skill, high-tech careers these manufacturers provide in our communities,” Bauer said. “We hope the poster will make Wisconsinites beam with pride in learning what’s made by their own neighbors.”
Included on the poster are household names and globally distributed products, including Bassett Mechanical’s pressure vessels.
“We’re honored to be featured on the Made in Wisconsin poster. It’s a powerful reminder of the innovation and craftsmanship that define our team at Bassett Mechanical—and the pride we take in being part of Wisconsin’s manufacturing legacy,” Kim Bassett, CEO, Bassett Mechanical
While highlighting just a tiny fraction of what’s produced in Wisconsin, the poster nonetheless shows off the Badger State’s manufacturing prowess. The poster will be shared with elected officials, local chambers, education partners, and more.
“We’re incredibly proud of the strength, diversity, and innovation of our state’s manufacturing sector,” said Dave Anderson, BMO WI Head of Commercial Banking. “As we head into Manufacturing Month, we’re proud to partner on this year’s Made in Wisconsin poster to showcase just a small sample of the incredible things made right here in Wisconsin.”
