“Forward” is Wisconsin’s motto and the motto that helped mold this organization’s name. Wisconsin’s energy providers drive our state forward by contributing more than $20 billion to the state’s economy annually and employing tens of thousands of skilled workers who build, operate and maintain the electric system.
Construction projects, such as the building of utility-scale solar arrays and natural gas fueled power plants, can infuse millions of dollars into a local economy. These projects create hundreds of trade union jobs for local workers – workers who include heavy equipment operators, licensed journeymen electricians, laborers, carpenters, ironworkers and members of the pipe trades.
Once built, the on-going needs of power generation and distribution require a highly skilled unionized workforce. Utility workers, such as line workers and tradespeople who work inside power plants, keep the power flowing and lights on day and night for everyone across Wisconsin, 365 days a year.
The utility workers and building tradespeople of today have spent countless hours in classrooms within educational facilities that include high schools, tech colleges, and union training centers. These skilled individuals hone their craft and help make their jobs an immeasurable part of our communities and our economy. These workers earn family-supporting wages, receive health insurance and retirement benefits, and have access to high-quality training throughout their careers.
A highly skilled unionized workforce will continue to be the true muscle behind what powers our state forward.