Thrive Economic Development (ThriveED) is proud to join the national celebration of Manufacturing Day, recognizing the essential role of manufacturing in driving economic growth and fostering rewarding career opportunities in Jefferson County. Manufacturing is the backbone of the county’s economy, with 32% of local employment dedicated to the industry, led by its thriving food and beverage manufacturing sector.
Jefferson County’s strategic location between Madison and Milwaukee, coupled with its business-friendly infrastructure, has attracted major manufacturers such as Kikkoman, Trek, Nestle Purina, Palermo’s Pizza, Johnsonville and Jones Dairy Farm. This dynamic sector supports over 10,000 jobs and generates significant economic impact, making Jefferson County a key contributor to Wisconsin’s manufacturing leadership.
“Manufacturing is not only the largest industry in our county, but it’s also an essential part of our identity. From household names to innovative suppliers, we are proud to support the companies that make the products we all know and love,” said Deborah Reinbold, President of Thrive Economic Development. “Today, we celebrate the incredible contributions of our manufacturing workforce and look forward to continued growth and innovation in this critical sector.”
Manufacturing Day also serves as an opportunity to highlight the value of manufacturing as a career path. With high demand for skilled workers and access to cutting-edge training programs, manufacturers in Jefferson County offer diverse opportunities to build meaningful careers.
“The future of manufacturing in Jefferson County is bright, and we’re committed to supporting the industry’s continued growth. Manufacturing Day is a reminder of the great careers available in this sector, and we invite our community to explore those opportunities,” said Ben Wehmeier, Jefferson County Administrator.