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The message at a forum for manufacturing in North Branch held last week, was that manufacturing in Minnesota is relatively healthy at this time,  but industry owners and operators are still concerned about “economic stagnation” on the horizon. They expect Minnesota laws mandating sick time and family leave and other benefits to become obstacles in the path-to-profits.  

However, the most-cited concern, from a recent manufacturing survey presented at the forum,  is developing and retaining a qualified manufacturing workforce.  

North Branch high school principal Clint Link spoke at the December 12 Enterprise Minnesota event entitled the ‘state of manufacturing,’ and his update was a welcome  message in the networking morning. Business reps leaned-in as Principal Link assured the audience that district 138 is embracing  manufacturing.  

Principal Link said North Branch needs more ‘work based learning’ partners locally, and encouraged business owners to look into the high school’s program where students learn CTE skills on-site.

Link said the high school is looking for instructors, as well.  “There is no typical shop teacher anymore,” Link continued, sharing details about North Branch’s  specialized Career and Technical  Education (CTE) program catelogue and growth.

Bob Kill, President of Enterprise Minnesota, likewise added how vocational technical colleges are “on fire" with course enrollments and breadth of choices— due to the high school students adding onto their exposure to CTE.

Kill explained some survey questions and responses in depth, and asked the audience members for their personal experiences.  The survey is in its 15th year and was administered both virtually and in person between August and Sept. 2023.  It asked about recession fears, plans to invest or modernize, the ease of hiring, what employees are looking for, and many other issues.  

Enterprise Minnesota is putting on regional gatherings for manufacturers and their partners;  like banks, consultants and staffing firms, to also provide an overview of  survey findings and present programs and support opportunities. 

 Attendees last week in North Branch included robotics and automation experts, healthcare consultants, a MN Chamber of Commerce spokesperson, True North mergers and acquisitions, Central MN Jobs & Training, human resources professionals, Nancy Hoffman was there for Chisago County HRA/EDA and many others.

MN House Representative Brian Johnson, who represents a portion of Chisago County, commented that it really helps lawmakers understand the impacts of what they enact, when manufacturers invite legislators for tours and explain their operations and products.  Rep. Johnson said he makes time to visit manufacturing sites when invited in.

Some Minnesota paid leave and family balance laws don’t go into-effect until 2026 and between now and then the implementation (logistics) are being developed.   Forum audience members heard it is up to those in the private sector to reach out to their lawmakers and provide input. 

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