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US Recruitment Trends
Industry Showdown
Explore the trends, insights, and expertise shaping the future of talent acquisition across some of America’s key industries. We’ve gathered market intelligence, expert opinions, and in-depth analysis to highlight the sectors leading the way. From aerospace and renewable energy to automation and mining, we dive into the recruitment challenges, skills gaps, and emerging opportunities each industry faces. Designed to help industry leaders navigate the changing dynamics of the U.S. talent market, we provide the essential knowledge needed to stay ahead.
California
Leading Industry: Data Centers
California's data center industry is a global hub, offering extensive colocation facilities and low-latency connections to both U.S. and international markets. Its strategic location, skilled workforce, and commitment to renewable energy make it ideal for businesses seeking robust connectivity and sustainable solutions.
Roles in Demand
- VP Development
- Senior Project Managers
- Data Center Engineers
Thriving Industries in California:
Aerospace & DefenceAEC
Colorado
Leading Industry: Mining
Colorado’s mining industry is a vital economic driver, producing a variety of resources such as gold, molybdenum, oil, and coal that support local economies and industrial needs. With its rich gold mining history and significant contributions from major companies like Newmont and Freeport McMoRan, the state continues to lead national mineral production while incorporating advanced technologies and substantial investments.
Roles in Demand
- Mining Engineers
- VPs of Exploration
- Mine Geologists
Thriving Industries in Colorado:
Food & BeverageAerospace & Defense
Florida
Leading Industry: Aerospace and Defense
Florida's aerospace and defense industry excels due to its robust manufacturing base, skilled workforce, and strategic access to global markets via three spaceports and numerous airports. A pro-business climate, favorable tax policies, and substantial investments make it a prime location for industry leaders.
Roles in Demand
- Systems Engineers
- Sales Directors
- Project Directors
Thriving Industries in Florida:
Construction EquipmentTIC
Georgia
Leading Industry: Data Centres
Georgia's data centre industry flourishes due to its strategic location for financial transactions and an expanding cybersecurity sector. The state's strong telecom infrastructure, along with a business-friendly environment and access to a skilled workforce, positions Georgia as a leading hub for data center operations.
Roles in Demand
- Senior Network Engineers
- Project Directors
- Electrical Design Engineers
Thriving Industries in Georgia:
Construction EquipmentTIC
Illinois
Leading Industry: Construction
Illinois’ construction industry is flourishing, fueled by substantial financial investments and a strong pipeline of major projects. With record funding and federal support, the sector is revitalizing communities, creating jobs, and enhancing infrastructure across the state.
Roles in Demand
- Financial Controllers
- Senior Vice Presidents
- Chief Operating Officers
Thriving Industries in Illinois:
AECData Centers
Massachusetts
Leading Industry: Life Science
Massachusetts is a global leader in life sciences, drawing leading biotech, pharmaceutical, and healthcare companies to its innovative ecosystem. Supported by extensive infrastructure, a highly educated workforce, and significant venture capital investment, the state fosters continuous job creation and remains a hub for advanced research and development.
Roles in Demand
- Business Development Managers
- Strategy Consultants
- QA Regulatory Compliance Managers
Thriving Industries in Massachusetts:
AECBattery Materials
Michigan
Leading Industry: Automotive
Michigan’s automotive industry is the global capital of automotive innovation, home to major automakers and the world's densest supply chain. With a highly skilled workforce and a focus on research and development, the state leads U.S. auto production and serves as a hub for next-generation automotive technologies and vehicles.
Roles in Demand
- Regional Sales Managers
- Automotive Engineers
- Plant Managers
Thriving Industries in Michigan:
Battery MaterialsTIC
Texas
Leading Industry: Renewable Energy
Texas’ renewable energy industry is expanding, driven by its status as the largest energy producer in the U.S. and a leader in both wind and solar power. With extensive infrastructure, economic incentives, and significant job creation, the state is attracting substantial investments while advancing toward a cleaner energy future.
Roles in Demand
- Wind Turbine Technicians
- Offshore Project Managers
- VPs of Exploration
Thriving Industries in Texas:
Aerospace & DefenseConstruction Equipment
Virginia
Leading Industry: Aerospace and Defense
Virginia’s aerospace and defense industry is growing, driven by its strategic location near federal agencies and major firms, a skilled workforce, and a vibrant innovation ecosystem. This environment fosters collaboration and access to lucrative contracts, while ongoing investments in research and infrastructure enhance the state's leadership in the sector.
Roles in Demand
- Project Managers
- Chief Growth Officers
- Capture Directors
Thriving Industries in Virginia:
Data CentersBuilding Materials
Wisconsin
Leading Industry: Food and Beverage
Wisconsin’s food and beverage industry thrives on its strong agricultural heritage and a vibrant food science community, attracting major companies and innovative startups alike. With a diverse range of production capabilities and a robust ecosystem of over 3,700 businesses, the state develops a supportive environment for growth.
Roles in Demand
- VP of Operations
- Quality Assurance Managers
- Plant Managers
Thriving Industries in Wisconsin:
AutomationConstruction Equipment
Arizona
Leading Industry: Data Centers
Arizona’s data center industry is rapidly expanding, supported by its strategic location, which offers low-latency access to major U.S. markets and a favorable climate for data operations. The state boasts a robust telecommunications infrastructure and a growing skilled workforce, making it an attractive destination for companies seeking efficient and sustainable data solutions, further enhanced by investments in renewable energy initiatives.
Roles in Demand
- Project Managers
- Engineers
- Operations Managers
Thriving Industries in Arizona:
MiningIndiana
Leading Industry: Automation
Indiana’s automation industry is thriving as automation enhances productivity in its strong manufacturing sector, especially in automotive and machinery. State investments in workforce training and tech infrastructure also support growth, attracting companies seeking skilled talent and business-friendly conditions.
Roles in Demand
- Project Engineers
- Plant Managers
- Sales Managers
Thriving Industries in Indiana:
MiningKansas
Leading Industry: AEC
Kansas’ AEC industry is expanding due to increased urban development and a strong focus on sustainable, energy-efficient building designs. Additionally, efforts to preserve historic structures are fueling demand for architectural expertise across the state.
Roles in Demand
- Project Engineers
- Project Managers
- Sales Managers
Thriving Industries in Kansas:
MiningMaryland
Leading Industry: Building Materials
Maryland’s building materials industry is thriving due to steady construction growth in both urban and suburban areas, along with a strong focus on sustainable and locally-sourced materials. The state’s proximity to major East Coast markets also boosts demand, making Maryland a key supplier in the region.
Roles in Demand
- Estimators
- Project Managers
- Project Superintendants
Thriving Industries in Maryland:
Aerospace & DefenseNew York
Leading Industry: Building Materials
New York’s building materials industry is robust, driven by continuous urban development, high-rise construction, and a strong emphasis on sustainable, innovative materials. The state’s diverse architecture projects and large market demand make it a major hub for advanced building materials.
Roles in Demand
- Estimation Managers
- Project Managers
Thriving Industries in New York:
WindOhio
Leading Industry: Automation
Ohio’s automation industry is thriving due to its strong manufacturing base, where automation enhances productivity and precision, especially in automotive and aerospace sectors. State initiatives supporting innovation and a skilled workforce further attract automation companies to the region.
Roles in Demand
- Engineers
- Plant Managers
- Sales Managers
Thriving Industries in Ohio:
MiningSouth Carolina
Leading Industry: Automation
South Carolina’s automation industry is growing, fueled by a strong manufacturing sector, especially in automotive and aerospace, where automation improves efficiency and quality. The state’s business-friendly policies and investment in workforce training make it an attractive location for automation companies.
Roles in Demand
- Engineers
- Senior Planners
- Sales Managers
Thriving Industries in South Carolina:
MiningWashington
Leading Industry: Maritime
Washington’s maritime industry is a vital economic driver, anchored by Seattle’s role as a major departure point for Alaska cruises and strong sectors in fishing, shipbuilding, and water transportation. The state’s focus on sustainability is advancing initiatives to reduce emissions across shipyards and commercial vessels, supporting environmentally responsible growth.
Roles in Demand
- Marine Engineers
- Naval Architects
- Marine Surveyors
Thriving Industries in Washington:
Construction EquipmentAerospace & Defense
Leading Industries
Find further information on our leading industries below, with details on how they're driving economic growth in their respective states.
Data Centers
California's data center industry serves as a major global hub, home to numerous data centers and colocation facilities. Its strategic Pacific Coast location offers low-latency connections to key U.S. cities and international markets, making it an ideal destination for businesses. With over 240 colocation facilities and a skilled workforce supported by top universities, California provides robust network connectivity and innovative solutions. Additionally, the state's commitment to renewable energy helps data centers reduce costs while aligning with sustainability goals.
Why is it Thriving?
Large Economy: California's GDP is the 4th largest globally, providing data centers with access to a large customer base and a business-friendly environment that includes major tech companies like Apple and Google.
Thriving Data Center Market: California hosts over 240 colocation facilities across 25 cities, making it easy for businesses to find data center solutions that meet their needs.
Strategic Location: Positioned along the Pacific Coast, California is a key hub for connecting U.S. companies with Asia, Mexico, and Canada, offering low-latency connections to major U.S. cities.
Excellent Network Connectivity: California has robust fiber optic networks and is home to major public cloud providers. Multiple undersea internet cables enhance global connectivity, ensuring fast, reliable services.
Skilled Workforce: With a population of over 39 million and top global universities, California offers a rich talent pool for data center management and I.T. services.
Leaders in Renewable Energy: California's commitment to renewable energy, including solar and wind power, helps data centers align with sustainability goals while reducing electricity costs.
Mining
Colorado's mining industry is a key economic driver, producing diverse resources such as gold, molybdenum, oil, and coal that fuel both local economies and broader industrial needs. With a rich gold mining legacy, active coal mines, and significant molybdenum output, the state remains a national leader in mineral production. Major companies like Newmont and Freeport McMoRan bring advanced technologies and substantial investment to the sector.
Why is it Thriving?
Diverse Resource Deposits: Colorado mines produce a wide variety of valuable resources, including gold, molybdenum, oil, natural gas, coal, and helium. This diversity of minerals strengthens the industry's economic impact across the state.
Legacy of Gold Mining: Colorado's historic gold mines, such as the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine, continue to operate and contribute significantly to both local economies and state heritage. With over 1,500 gold locations, Colorado remains a hotspot for this precious metal.
Major Coal Production: Colorado is a large coal producer in the U.S., with both underground and surface mines currently active. Mines like Colowyo, Deserado, and West Elk provide significant coal output, supporting energy needs across the region.
Presence of Major Mining Companies: The state is home to leading mining corporations, including Newmont Corporation, Freeport McMoRan, and BHP. Their operations bring advanced technology, expertise, and substantial investment into Colorado's mining sector.
Significant Molybdenum Production: Colorado hosts the Climax Mine, one of the world's largest molybdenum producers, which supports industries such as steel and electronics manufacturing worldwide.
- Commitment to Sustainable Practices: Colorado's mining industry is advancing sustainability by adopting new technologies that reduce environmental impact. For instance, Newmont's Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine has introduced its first battery-electric large mining truck, aiming to create a safer and greener mining environment. Initiatives like these underscore the industry's dedication to more sustainable practices and a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
Aerospace and Defense
Florida's aerospace and defense industry is driven by a strong manufacturing base and strategic access to global markets through its three spaceports and extensive airport network. The state benefits from a skilled workforce, bolstered by military personnel transitioning to civilian roles and top educational institutions providing specialized training. A pro-business environment, competitive tax policies, and significant investments further enhance its appeal, solidifying its position as a hub for major players in the industry.
Why is it Thriving?
Strong Manufacturing Base: Florida ranks 2nd among U.S. states for aerospace products and parts manufacturing and 2nd for space and defense systems manufacturing.
Strategic Location: Home to 3 spaceports and 130 public airports, Florida provides excellent access to global markets, supported by 21 major military installations.
Growing Aerospace Hub in Northwest Florida: Proximity to six major aerospace OEMs and an emerging aerospace cluster make Northwest Florida a strategic location for the industry.
Skilled Workforce: Florida boasts a large aerospace workforce, supported by over 56,000 military personnel and 3,000+ transitioning each year, contributing to a robust talent pool.
Educational Support: Institutions like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and various technical colleges provide specialized training in aerospace mechanics and related fields.
Pro-Business Environment: Florida’s competitive tax policies and planned $1.5 billion in economic development investments create a favorable business climate for aerospace and defense companies.
Strong Defense Presence: With one of the largest veteran populations in the U.S. and 400+ aerospace establishments, Florida’s aerospace and defense industry continues to thrive, attracting key players like Lockheed Martin and Boeing.
- R&D and Innovation: The presence of active research facilities, such as the Air Force Research Lab and McKinley Climatic Lab, further strengthens Florida’s position as a leader in aerospace innovation.
Data Centers
Georgia's data center industry thrives thanks to its strategic location for financial transactions and a growing cybersecurity sector. With a robust telecom infrastructure attracting global companies like Google and AT&T, the state offers a business-friendly environment and access to a skilled workforce. These factors combine to establish Georgia as a premier hub for data center operations.
Why is it Thriving?
- Strategic Location for Data Transmission: Georgia processes 70% of all financial transactions in the U.S., positioning it at the core of data sharing. Its cybersecurity and IT sectors require robust data storage solutions, making the state a prime destination for data centers.
- Established Telecom Infrastructure: Two major fiber routes intersect in metro Atlanta, providing high-speed data transmission. The presence of key research networks like Internet2 and the National LambdaRail further boosts the state's connectivity, attracting global data center companies such as Google, AT&T, and QTS.
- Business-Friendly Environment: Georgia offers a low-cost, reliable utility infrastructure with a choice of three major power suppliers. This, combined with low risks of natural disasters and business disruption, ensures a stable environment for data center operations.
- Access to Skilled Workforce: With a population of over 10 million, Georgia provides access to a large, skilled talent pool. The state's universities award more than 2,400 IT degrees annually, ensuring a steady pipeline of tech talent for data center growth.
- Global Business Hub: Georgia's robust logistics infrastructure, including the busiest airport in the world and a rapidly growing port, supports the thriving data center industry. Its geographic advantages make it an ideal location for companies looking to expand or establish data centers.
Construction
Illinois' construction industry is thriving and driven by significant financial contributions and a robust pipeline of major projects. The sector is adapting to challenges while benefiting from record investments and strong federal funding support. It not only enhances the state's economy but also revitalizes communities, ensuring job creation and improved infrastructure for residents.
Why is it Thriving?
- Significant Financial Contribution: The construction sector in Illinois completes $8.7 billion in non-residential projects and $3.8 billion in residential projects annually, underscoring its importance to the economy.
- High Employment Levels: As of the first quarter of 2023, there were 33,400 construction establishments in Illinois, contributing to a total of 919,000 construction establishments across the U.S.
- Competitive Salaries: Construction jobs in Illinois pay well, with all five of the most numerous construction occupations offering median annual pay exceeding the median for all employees in 2022.
- Forecasted Growth: The Illinois construction industry is projected to grow by 7% in 2024, indicating resilience in the face of challenges like fluctuating material costs and labor shortages.
- Mega Project Investments: Strong growth is driven by significant investments in mega projects, such as electric vehicle battery plants and semiconductor factories, alongside increased onshoring efforts.
- Record Investment Levels: Total investment in the construction sector is forecasted to reach a record $112 billion, highlighting robust demand for construction services.
- Economic Impact: The construction industry contributed $41 billion, or 3.6%, to Illinois' GDP of $1.1 trillion, showcasing its vital role in the state's economy.
- Employment Increase: Construction employment in Illinois reached 236,500 as of August 2024, reflecting an increase of 2,400 (1%) from August 2023 and 8,600 (4%) from February 2020.
- Federal Funding Support: Illinois is expected to receive approximately $11.3 billion in federal funding over five years for highways and bridges, with $7.3 billion already announced for various infrastructure projects.
- Major Infrastructure Projects: Under Gov. JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program, significant projects in the south Cook County area, with a total investment of $148 million, are underway, aimed at improving safety and mobility while creating good-paying jobs.
- Community Revitalization: The Rebuild Illinois program is revitalizing communities by investing in transportation improvements, enhancing local quality of life, and promoting equitable access to infrastructure.
Life Science
Massachusetts is a global leader in life sciences, attracting top biotech, pharmaceutical, and healthcare companies to its innovative ecosystem. With extensive infrastructure and a highly educated workforce, the state supports a thriving industry that continues to grow, bolstered by significant venture capital investment and government incentives. This dynamic environment drives continuous job creation and maintains its position as a hub for cutting-edge research and development.
Why is it Thriving?
- World-Leading Life Sciences Hub: Massachusetts is renowned as the world's top life sciences supercluster, attracting global companies in biotech, pharma, and healthcare to its innovative environment.
- Extensive Commercial Biopharma Space: The state provides quality infrastructure for life sciences operations with over 35 million square feet of biopharma space and 700,000 liters of biomanufacturing capacity (the largest globally).
- Thriving Life Sciences Ecosystem: Massachusetts is home to 1,200 life sciences companies, including major players like Takeda, Sanofi, and Fresenius, employing around 120,000 professionals in the sector.
- Top National Rankings: The state ranks #1 in NIH funding per capita, leading the nation in medical device exports as a percentage of total exports, reinforcing its dominance in life sciences.
- Robust Venture Capital Support: In 2020 alone, life sciences companies in Massachusetts secured $5.8 billion in venture capital funding, while $3.26 billion in VC funding was announced in the first half of 2024.
- Significant Incentives: The Massachusetts Life Sciences Initiative has committed $1.5 billion in incentives, making the state an attractive hub for life sciences businesses and innovation.
- Continuous Job Growth: In 2023, the state added nearly 3,000 new jobs in biopharma, contributing to 17% of its overall job growth, with the R&D workforce increasing by 3.7%.
- Expanding Pipeline and M&A Activity: Massachusetts' drug development pipeline accounts for 15.2% of the national total, and the state saw $28.9 billion in M&A activity in the first half of 2024, triple the amount from the previous year.
- Top Employers and MedTech Presence: 90% of the world's top biopharma companies and 15 of the top 25 MedTech companies have operations in Massachusetts.
- Highly Educated Workforce: Massachusetts ranks as the most educated state in the U.S., with the highest percentage of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher, ensuring access to top talent in the life sciences.
- State Commitment to Innovation: Massachusetts has committed $1.6 billion to support the growth of the life sciences ecosystem, including state-of-the-art facilities and research hubs across the region.
Automotive
Michigan's automotive industry thrives as the global capital of automotive innovation, housing major automakers and the densest supply chain worldwide. The state plays a pivotal role in U.S. auto production while boasting a highly skilled workforce and a commitment to research and development. With a strong culture of innovation, Michigan is not only the leading exporter of transportation equipment but also a hub for next-generation automotive technologies and vehicles.
Why is it Thriving?
- Global Automotive Headquarters: Detroit is recognized as the global automotive capital. It houses major automakers like General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Stellantis, which contribute significantly to Michigan's economy.
- Extensive Supply Chain: Michigan boasts the world's densest automotive and mobility supply chain, with 26 original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) having headquarters or technology centers in the state.
- Economic Impact: The automotive and mobility industry contributes approximately $304 billion to Michigan's economy annually, making it a critical sector for the state's financial health.
- Significant Production Share: In 2022, Michigan accounted for 21% of all U.S. auto production, highlighting its pivotal role in the national automotive space.
- Dominance of Suppliers: 98 of the top 100 automotive suppliers in North America are present in Michigan, with 65 of them headquartered in the state, further solidifying its supplier network.
- Employment Hub: The industry provides 1.1 million jobs, representing 20% of Michigan's workforce, making it the top state for automotive manufacturing jobs—six times higher than the national average.
- Leading Exporter: Michigan is the #1 exporter of transportation equipment in the U.S., emphasizing its importance in global trade.
- Highly Skilled Workforce: The state features a highly skilled workforce, ranking #1 in the concentration of mechanical engineers (31,950), industrial engineers (26,410), and tool and die makers (9,610), all significantly above the national average.
- Commitment to Innovation: Michigan's manufacturing heritage supports a culture of innovation, positioning the state as a leader in next-generation transportation and manufacturing.
- Investment in R&D: Michigan is first in mobility and automotive research and development (R&D), with 62% of total U.S. spending in this area taking place within the state.
- Infrastructure for Autonomous Vehicles: The state has the most extensive network of autonomous vehicle and mobility testing infrastructure, alongside the nation's most favorable laws for testing self-driving vehicles.
- Major Production Hub: Michigan is home to nearly 19% of all U.S. auto production, reinforcing its status as a leading state in the automotive sector.
Energy
Texas's renewable energy industry is expanding, driven by its status as the largest energy producer in the U.S. and a leader in both wind and solar power. With extensive infrastructure, economic incentives, and significant job creation, the state is attracting substantial investments while advancing toward a cleaner energy future.
Why is it Thriving?
- Leading Energy Producer: Texas is the largest energy producer in the U.S., with a significant contribution from renewable sources. In 2022, Texas generated approximately 15% of the country's electricity from all renewable sources.
- Wind Power Dominance: Texas leads the nation in wind energy production, benefiting from its vast open spaces and favorable wind conditions. As of 2023, it had over 30 gigawatts (GW) of installed wind capacity, enough to power more than 7 million homes.
- Growing Solar Capacity: The state is the second-largest producer of solar energy in the U.S., with over 10 GW of installed solar capacity by 2023, thanks to its high solar irradiance and a surge in utility-scale solar projects.
- Strong Infrastructure: Texas has established extensive transmission lines (Competitive Renewable Energy Zones) that efficiently deliver wind-generated electricity from remote areas to major urban centers, facilitating the growth of renewables.
- Economic Incentives: A deregulated energy market and federal subsidies have created competitive economic incentives for renewable energy projects, encouraging investment and development across the state.
- Job Creation: The renewable energy sector is a significant driver of job creation, with the wind industry alone employing approximately 25,000 people in Texas, providing vital economic boosts, especially in rural areas.
- Investment and Revenue Growth: The growth of renewable energy has attracted substantial investments, with billions invested in wind and solar projects, which benefit local economies and generate increased tax revenues for communities.
- Environmental Impact: The expansion of renewable energy plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality, helping Texas transition towards a cleaner energy future.
- Water Conservation: Renewable energy sources like wind and solar require minimal water for operation compared to traditional power plants, helping conserve valuable water resources in a state prone to droughts.
- Political Support: Despite political challenges, the renewable energy sector in Texas has become politically resilient, gaining support from urban Democrats for its clean energy benefits and rural Republicans for its economic development potential.
- Technological Advancements: Continuous innovations in renewable technologies and decreasing costs have made wind and solar energy increasingly viable for homeowners and businesses, further driving the industry's growth.
Aerospace and Defense
Virginia's Aerospace and Defense industry is growing, driven by its strategic location near federal agencies and major firms, a skilled workforce, and a vibrant innovation ecosystem. This environment fosters collaboration and access to lucrative contracts while ongoing investments in research and infrastructure enhance the state's leadership in the sector.
Why is it Thriving?
- Strategic Location: Fairfax County hosts major defense and aerospace companies, benefiting from proximity to the Pentagon, the Department of Defense, and NASA, facilitating easier access to federal contracts and high-profile projects.
- Federal Procurement Dominance: Companies in Fairfax County receive more federal procurement dollars than any other U.S. locality, making it a lucrative area for defense and aerospace operations.
- Notable Companies: Prominent firms like Northrop Grumman, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and BAE Systems are headquartered or have a significant regional presence, indicating strong industry confidence.
- Skilled Workforce: Virginia boasts a competitive talent pool, with many candidates holding security clearances and former military personnel contributing to the workforce.
- Growing Industry Projects: The state has announced over 60 aerospace and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) projects in the past decade, leading to significant job creation (over 4,600 jobs) and investment (over $865 million).
- Dynamic Innovation Ecosystem: A vibrant industrial ecosystem includes numerous engineering and I.T. firms, advanced aerospace research, and public-private partnerships in R&D, further driving innovation.
- Strong Infrastructure: An extensive network of transportation links, including airports, railways, and ports, supports supply chain needs and logistics for the aerospace and UAS industries.
- Project-Ready Sites: Virginia offers a robust portfolio of sites for aerospace operations, including over 300 fully characterized sites and numerous industrial buildings available for lease, catering to diverse business needs.
- Access to Research Facilities: Major research institutions like NASA's Langley Research Center and the Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center provide essential support for aerospace and defense innovations.
Food and Beverage
Wisconsin's food and beverage industry thrives on its strong agricultural heritage and a vibrant food science community, attracting major companies and innovative startups alike. With a diverse range of production capabilities and a robust ecosystem of over 3,700 businesses, the state develops a supportive environment for growth.
Why is it Thriving?
- Strong Agricultural Tradition: Wisconsin boasts a proud heritage in agriculture, food science, and manufacturing, creating a fertile environment for food and beverage companies.
- Presence of Major Companies: Eight of the ten largest food companies in the world operate in Wisconsin, benefiting from the state's efficient supply chain and timely distribution.
- Vibrant Food Science Community: Wisconsin is globally recognized for its intense focus on food science, with investments in research and development leading to improved practices and standards in food safety and nutrition.
- Robust Industry Ecosystem: With over 3,700 food and beverage companies generating combined gross annual revenues of $10 billion, Wisconsin ranks fourth nationally in food and beverage manufacturing talent.
- Diverse Production Capabilities: The state is the leading producer of cheese, ginseng, cranberries, snap beans, dry whey, and milk goats in the U.S., showcasing its diverse agricultural strengths.
- Employment Opportunities: Approximately 141,000 jobs are connected to the food and beverage industry in Wisconsin, providing significant employment and economic impact.
- Supportive Business Environment: Initiatives by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) foster entrepreneurship by offering funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities, contributing to a thriving business climate.
- Innovative Startup Companies: The state is home to successful startups like Fork Farms and Octopi Brewing, which exemplify Wisconsin’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and efficient business practices.
- Strategic Location and Resources: Southeastern Wisconsin's central location, abundant water supply, and high-quality workforce enhance the operational advantages for food and beverage manufacturers.
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