MADISON – Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), the combined state chamber and manufacturers’ association, has been highlighting and celebrating Wisconsin’s manufacturing industry throughout October. This month, WMC has showcased the state’s manufacturers by revealing the 2025 Made in Wisconsin poster, hosting manufacturing roundtables, opening nominations for the annual Manufacturer of the Year awards, running the 10th annual Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest, and preparing to host its largest annual event, Business Day, next Thursday at the Monona Terrace. This week, WMC released a video featuring a historical and significant manufacturing sector of the state: foundries.
NEW VIDEO: Waupaca Foundry Pours WMC Sign
On Thursday, WMC released a new video highlighting the work of Waupaca Foundry in creating a custom WMC-branded sign, now displayed prominently in the front office of WMC’s new headquarters in Madison.
“Manufacturing has always forged Wisconsin’s future. This year, we celebrate Manufacturing Month with a symbol of that tradition and innovation, created by Waupaca Foundry,” said WMC President & CEO Kurt Bauer. “Foundries like Waupaca have been at the heart of Wisconsin for generations, combining tradition with cutting-edge technology to help propel our industry forward.”
Watch the full video here.
Manufacturers Encouraged to Apply for Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards
WMC, in partnership with Baker Tilly and Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, has officially opened nominations for the 37th annual Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) Awards. This long-standing program honors the strength and innovation of Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector by recognizing companies that demonstrate excellence in workforce development, sound business practices, financial performance, innovation, and community investment. Nominations are now open at www.wimoty.com.
Business Day in Madison
Next Thursday, October 23, WMC will host its annual Business Day event at the Monona Terrace in Madison. As Wisconsin’s premier business gathering, the event will feature a full day of bold insights and big-picture thinking from keynotes, expert-led panel discussions and presentations, and peer-to-peer networking.
Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin
The Top 4 finalists were revealed in the 10th annual Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest this week. WMC and Johnson Financial Group host the contest each year to highlight the state’s vibrant and diverse manufacturing industry. This year, 148 products were nominated. After a popular vote round and “Manufacturing Madness,” the bracket-style portion of the contest, voters are now casting their final ballots at www.madeinwis.com. The winner will ultimately be announced on Thursday, Oct. 23 at WMC’s Business Day event.
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