Did you know Wisconsin ranks second for manufacturing? We are more than just cows! That said, manufacturing is an important part of our economy. It needs to grow and thrive. For years young employees looked to college or elsewhere because they didn't understand the opportunities available. Nineteen years ago, Ann saw the need and started the NEW Alliance. Today she tells us about the exciting things happening in the state today.
About Ann Franz - Ann is the executive director of the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance. She has led the organization, since its inception in 2006. The over 400 members, mostly manufacturers employ 52 percent of the entire manufacturing workforce in the 18 counties of the region. Her past experience includes working in both the private and public sectors.
The NEW Manufacturing Alliance has been recognized nationally and internationally as a best practice in public/private partnerships. Mrs. Franz has presented at conferences throughout the nation on how to develop and grow industry sector partnerships. She spoken at an international conference in Italy on sector Alliances. The Alliance has received both state and international awards including from the Department of Public Instruction, ACTE’s Business & Education Partnership award and Frost & Sullivan’s Manufacturing Leadership Council’s Talent Management award. Mrs. Franz received the ATHENA Leadership award from the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce. She also was recognized by Insight Publications’ 2022 Women of Influence Lifetime Achievement Award winner‘. She has been quoted in local, state and national media including Industry Week, Washington Post, USA Today, Forbes and Gannet newspapers.
Ms. Franz earned her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh and her Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations from Northern Michigan University. Ms Franz serves on several local and statewide advisory committees and Boards. A few examples include she was appointed by Governor Walker and reappointed by Governor Evers to serve on the Wisconsin’s Governor’s Council on Workforce Investment, appointed by Governor Evers to serve on the Wisconsin Rehabilitation Council, Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development Board, Wisconsin Technology Education Association Advisory Board, commissioner of the Brown County Port Authority and served as the Vice Chair of the National Shipbuilding Research Program’s Workforce Development Panel.
