10 Major Wisconsin Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the Badger State
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When considering moving to the Badger State, Wisconsin’s thriving industries make it an appealing destination. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Milwaukee or apartments in Madison, the state’s economic diversity ensures job opportunities and financial stability. Wisconsin is known for its robust economy driven by major industries in Wisconsin, ranging from healthcare to dairy production. The presence of leading companies and a skilled workforce creates opportunities for locals. From bustling urban centers to scenic rural areas, Wisconsin combines economic vitality with a high quality of life.
Wisconsin at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
Top employers in Wisconsin
Walmart: 34,100 employees
Kwik Trip: 27,500 employees
University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority: 24,000 employees
University of Wisconsin: 21,000 employees
Froedtert and Medical College of Wisconsin: 16,100 employees
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10 major industries in Wisconsin
1. Life insurance and annuities
Major Employers: Northwestern Mutual (Milwaukee), Thrivent (office in Appleton), National Guardian Life Insurance Company (Madison)
Wisconsin is home to a thriving life insurance and annuities sector, providing careers in sales, underwriting, and actuarial sciences. Northwestern Mutual, headquartered in Milwaukee, offers positions ranging from financial advising to claims processing. Thrivent, based in Appleton, blends finance and faith-based services, creating unique career opportunities. The industry supports families with stable financial planning and strengthens the state’s economy, with hundreds of millions generated annually in premiums. Moving here provides access to a stable job market and a supportive professional network.
Major Employers: Quartz Health Solutions (Fitchburg), WPS Health Solutions (Madison), Humana (locations statewide)
Health insurance companies in Wisconsin serve residents with comprehensive plans and employ thousands in claims, customer service, and IT. Quartz and WPS, both based in or near Madison, are regional leaders in the healthcare space. Humana has significant operations in the state, adding to job diversity. As healthcare coverage remains essential, this industry offers a steady career path for professionals considering moving to the state for its robust healthcare infrastructure.
Major Employers: Sargento (Plymouth), Grande Cheese Company (Fond du Lac), Schreiber Foods (Green Bay)
Dairy is synonymous with Wisconsin, producing over 25% of the nation’s cheese. Jobs in production, quality assurance, and logistics abound in companies like Sargento and Schreiber Foods. The dairy industry supports local economies and preserves Wisconsin’s rural charm. Moving here offers access to both career opportunities and the cultural pride of the state’s dairy heritage.
Major Employers: Aurora Health Care (locations statewide), UW Health (Madison), Froedtert Health (Milwaukee)
Healthcare is a growing industry in Wisconsin, employing nurses, doctors, administrators, and technicians. Aurora Health Care, one of the largest employers, offers roles in both urban and rural hospitals. UW Health in Madison supports research and advanced patient care. This essential sector ensures job security while enhancing the state’s appeal to those relocating for quality healthcare access.
Major Employers: American Family Insurance (Madison), Acuity Insurance (Sheboygan), West Bend Mutual Insurance (West Bend)
The insurance sector supports the state’s economy by offering roles in claims, risk analysis, and customer service. American Family Insurance, headquartered in Madison, remains a top employer in the region with offices throughout the state. Acuity Insurance in Sheboygan prides itself on innovation in property and casualty coverage. The industry offers career stability, appealing to homebuyers and renters seeking Wisconsin’s economic resilience.
Major Employers: Bergstrom Automotive (Neenah), Heiser Automotive (Glendale), Van Horn Automotive (Plymouth)
Wisconsin’s automotive retail industry offers positions in sales, service, and management. Bergstrom Automotive in Neenah operates one of the state’s largest dealership networks. Heiser Automotive and Van Horn Automotive ensure widespread employment opportunities. This industry provides reliable jobs, making Wisconsin a good place to live for those seeking financial security and affordable housing.
Major Employers: Associated Bank (Green Bay), Johnson Financial Group (Racine), BMO Harris Bank (locations statewide)
Wisconsin’s banking sector employs thousands in roles ranging from branch management to financial advising. Associated Bank, headquartered in Green Bay, is a regional leader in personal and commercial banking, while Racine-based Johnson Financial Group contributes significantly to the state’s financial services landscape. Relocating to Wisconsin offers access to well-paying banking careers and a stable economic environment.
Major Employers: Kwik Trip (La Crosse), BP (locations statewide), Casey’s (locations statewide)
Gas stations and convenience stores are crucial to Wisconsin’s transportation infrastructure, employing cashiers, managers, and logistics workers. Kwik Trip, based in La Crosse, leads the state with its employee-focused culture. BP and Casey’s also provide opportunities across the state. These businesses contribute to Wisconsin’s accessibility, making it appealing to those seeking job stability in retail and hospitality.
Major Employers: Milwaukee Public Schools (Milwaukee), Madison Metropolitan School District (Madison), Green Bay Area Public Schools (Green Bay)
Wisconsin’s public education system employs thousands of teachers, administrators, and support staff. Milwaukee Public Schools, the largest district with over 69,000 students, provides opportunities for educators in urban environments. Other districts like Madison Metropolitan balance academic innovation with a community focus. Moving to Wisconsin ensures access to quality education systems and rewarding careers in education.
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10. Gasoline and petroleum
Major Employers: U.S. Energy (Appleton), ExxonMobil (locations statewide), Chevron (locations statewide)
The petroleum sector supports Wisconsin’s economy,supplying energy and creating jobs in distribution and logistics. U.S. Energy, based in Appleton, leads regional efforts in fuel distribution. ExxonMobil and Chevron maintain operations statewide, including the Badger State, employing technicians and analysts. This industry ensures consistent demand for skilled professionals, strengthening Wisconsin’s appeal to job seekers and homeowners alike.
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