Manufacturers Appreciation Breakfast

Published 11:28am Thursday, October 20, 2011
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The Fergus Falls Economic Improvement Commission hosted the fifth annual Manufacturers Appreciation Breakfast at the YMCA on Wednesday Oct. 12. The city is delighted to take part in this event as it underscores the importance of manufacturing in our city and it presents an opportunity to show our gratitude for the jobs, nearly 1,000, that are provided by local manufacturers with a yearly payroll of over $14 million. Statewide manufacturing has the second largest payroll in Minnesota’s private sector while providing over $16 billion in 2009 dollars. Exports brought $17.2 billion into the Minnesota economy in 2010.

West Tool and Design and the Evan and Glen Westra and the family were thanked for their years of contributions to our economy.

Both Westras expressed concern for the shortage of skilled workers to help local manufacturing grow. It was suggested that workforce needs be referred to area community and technical colleges that can provide the skills training and programs that manufacturers need for growth.

They were encouraged to provide scholarships and intemships to students as incentives to entering training programs and to encourage workforce retention in manufacturing.

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