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2025-06-24 Federal Market Insights Episode 12 — Session Overview

WPI Podcast Episode 12 Summary 

Host:  Mark Dennis, WPI  with special guest, Mr. Buckley Brinkman, Executive Director /CEO of the Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing and Productivity   https://wiscmp.org

Wisconsin’s industry is up against a few key challenges today…

  • First, there’s a push to modernize and adapt to new technologies, which can be costly.
  • There’s also a labor shortage, especially in manufacturing.
  • Then, environmental regulations are tightening, which means industries have to invest in sustainable practices.
  • Lastly, trade policies and global competition keep everyone on their toes.
  • It’s a dynamic landscape.

What are the greatest dangers to Wisconsin manufacturers?

  • The biggest dangers to Wisconsin manufacturers include economic downturns, which can hit demand;
  • global competition, which can undercut prices;
  • and supply chain disruptions, which can delay production.
  • In addition, there’s the threat of not keeping pace with technological innovation, and the growing need to address environmental concerns.
  • It’s a tough landscape to navigate

A mix of things are causing the labor shortage in Wisconsin.

  • The pandemic led to early retirements, health concerns, and people rethinking their careers.
  • There are also not enough younger workers to replace those leaving, and challenges like childcare and transportation affect people’s ability to work.
  • It’s a complex issue with no single cause.

What are Wisconsin’s Advantages today?

  • Wisconsin’s manufacturing benefits from a skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and a central location for distribution.
  • The state also has a diverse industrial base, so it’s not reliant on a single sector.
  • Plus, there’s a history of innovation and strong support for manufacturing, which helps companies stay competitive.
  • It’s a solid foundation to build on.
  • Wisconsin’s central location in the U.S. Midwest makes it a key distribution hub.
  • It’s well-connected by road, rail, and waterways, making it easier to reach major markets in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Being close to Chicago and major transport routes is a big plus.

We encourage business owners to travel to, participate in,  and take advantage of the many live events that are put on for YOUR BUSINESS here in Wisconsin.  Visit the Events pages at:

2025 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report Events | Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity

Events for June 2025Wisconsin Procurement Institute