Southeast Wisconsin Rises as a Hub for Skilled Talent and Growing Industries
Major Investments Set to Support 225,000 New Jobs Across Wisconsin
Southeast Wisconsin and Racine County are gaining national recognition for their strong economy and skilled workforce as traditional industries like manufacturing join emerging sectors such as AI, clean energy, and biohealth. Reports like “Wisconsin: Capturing More Than a Moment” highlight the region’s appeal to global corporations and startups due to its business climate, tax incentives, and access to talent. Major investments, such as Microsoft’s initial $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant, and its recently announced second phase data center with an additional investment of $4 billion, will create hundreds of jobs and boost demand for technical talent. Total nonfarm employment in Racine County, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surpassed 79,500 jobs in August 2025, and workforce projections estimate 225,000 new jobs statewide through 2032, with Racine County playing a major role in job creation.
The Milwaukee Region with its concentration of talent, research institutions, and innovation activity, benefits all of Southeast Wisconsin. LinkedIn’s “Cities on the Rise 2025” ranked the Milwaukee region among the fastest-growing U.S. metros for jobs, highlighting the area’s appeal to employers and workers alike.
Racine County Advantage
Within this thriving region, Racine County offers unique advantages. Businesses benefit from proximity to both Chicago and Milwaukee and access to over 1 million workers within the corridor — all without the high costs of operating in a large city. Its diverse industries provide a strong economic foundation, supported by the RCEDC for over 40 years.
LEADING INDUSTRIES & BUSINESSES IN RACINE COUNTY:
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MANUFACTURING: Advanced machinery, electronics, and transportation equipment, with companies like SC Johnson, Twin Disc, Modine, and CNH Industrial
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HEALTHCARE: Hospitals and health systems such as Ascension All Saints and Advocate Aurora.
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FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT: Strong presence of international businesses, including BRP US, Inc., Kerry Ingredients, and Seda NA.
Meeting Workforce Challenges
RCEDC partners with local school districts and higher education institutions, such as UW-Parkside and Gateway Technical College, which was ranked the #1 community college in the United States. These organizations have created programs in advanced manufacturing and technology to help prepare workers for emerging sectors, while supporting ongoing needs in existing industries. These support systems enable businesses to expand and grow in Racine County.
Looking Ahead
Southeast Wisconsin, with its strategic location and strong business ecosystem, continues to be a hub for growth and innovation. RCEDC can help your business grow here with site selection, incentives, and financing support.
Jordan Brown, RCEDC’s Corporate Attraction Market Lead, is ready to discuss the needs of companies and how Southeast Wisconsin can support their growth. Reach out to Jordan via email at jbrown@rcedc.org.