Celebrating Equipment Manufacturing One State at a Time

The AEM Manufacturing Express scheduled to visit Wisconsin 

By Allie Shane, Communications Specialist 
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According to a 2023 impact report published by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), equipment manufacturing created over 2.3 million jobs across the United States and generated $714 billion in total output and sales activity. In Wisconsin alone, the industry supported 30,520 jobs and contributed $4.7 billion of direct GDP. 
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The bottom line is clear: Equipment manufacturing remains an invaluable industry in the United States. ​

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In its most ambitious advocacy effort to date, AEM introduced the AEM Manufacturing Express. This bus tour commenced on July 1 in Iowa, with the goal of visiting 20 states and 80 AEM member companies in the span of four short months. At each visit, manufacturers are invited to showcase their technology and share stories with attendees.  

“The AEM Manufacturing Express hit the road this year to celebrate the equipment manufacturing industry and highlight its vital role in building a modern and resilient infrastructure, putting food on people’s tables and powering vital public services and utilities,” said AEM President Megan Tanel. “Behind every piece of equipment is a story, and we are telling the stories of the 2.3 million men and women of our industry and highlight how their grit, determination and can-do spirit have been pivotal to the American way of life.” 
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The tour will conclude in Wisconsin later this month, making an appearance at seven manufacturers. Its arrival coincides with Manufacturing Month, a time to recognize and celebrate manufacturers and the resolute individuals that work in the manufacturing industry.  

Two local manufacturers shared their excitement about participating in such an important initiative. 
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The Manufacturing Express will reach Super Products LLC in Mukwonago on Oct. 16. Employees will have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of the equipment manufacturing industry and its greater role in shaping America’s infrastructure. The bus’s visit will be combined with Super Products’ annual fundraiser. This year the manufacturer is raising funds for the Village of Mukwonago food pantry. Attendees can participate in a silent auction, a spin-the-wheel activity and a 50/50 raffle.  
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On Oct. 17, Husco will host the Manufacturing Express Bus Tour. Beginning at 1 p.m., the tour is stopping at Husco's Waukesha facility to share the importance of manufacturing in the U.S. economy, highlight the products Husco develops and delivers and share more about how Husco gives back to the community. Attendees also can take a behind-the-scenes tour of Husco’s facility and learn more about the critical components and expertise the company supplies to a wide range of automotive and off-highway vehicle manufacturers. 
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“We’re excited to host the Manufacturing Express Bus Tour, and proud to welcome leaders from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers to our Waukesha facilities,” said Austin Ramirez, President and CEO of Husco and MMAC Chair. “Manufacturing is critical to the success of our region and our country, and our team at Husco is a great example of what we can accomplish together in an entrepreneurial environment where people can share their creativity and grow their careers.” 
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Following Husco, the bus will make its final stop at Komatsu’s Milwaukee facility on Oct. 18.  

To learn more about the AEM Express Tour, visit https://manufacturingexpress.org/. ​