When it comes to staffing your business, it is important to have a qualified workforce with proven productivity, and at a competitive cost.
Labor force
There is an active labor force of nearly 825,000 and a total population of 1.9 million within roughly 50 miles of the Northeastern and Central Wisconsin region, which reflects a reasonable commute for employees to businesses throughout the region.
Labor participation rate
Our region's labor participation rate surpasses both the U.S. and Wisconsin as a whole.
The region boasts a highly skilled and educated workforce, ready and willing to work. With many two-year and four-year colleges and universities located here, we provide employers a significant talent pool of well-trained, educated workers, setting us apart from other regions in the state and in the nation.
Workforce productivity
Businesses in our region enjoy high productivity rates. Productivity is a staple of economic growth and a central determinant of living standards.
Wage rates
Our competitive wage scales support business growth and success.
Workers compensation rates
Wisconsin's worker compensation premiums are under $6 per $100 of wages paid — the best in a five-state region, which includes Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois.
Unemployment rates
The current unemployment rate, remains below the Wisconsin, Michigan and U.S. averages.
Education
Students in our region boast high graduation rates from high school, high ACT test scores, and many other achievements that reflects Wisconsin's strong emphasis on education.
Job training
WPS works together with the Workforce Development Boards and Wisconsin Technical College districts that serve our region, along with public and private sectors, to anticipate and develop solutions for tomorrow's workforce needs. Central to this goal, is the development of affordable training or employment opportunities.
While general programs and providers vary depending on the location and type of industry. Job training can be delivered on-site at your company, via distance learning, or a combination of these methods from among industry experts in a broad range of topics.
