Mike Reader of Precision Plus Speaks at the 20th Annual Governor’s Conference on Economic Development
On February 12, 2015, Mike Reader, President of Precision Plus participated in a panel presentation at the 20th Annual Governor’s Conference on Economic Development in Madison, Wisconsin. Other panelists were Michael Shiels, Dean, School of Applied Technologies at Waukesha Technical College Dual Enrollment Academy, and Lori Peacock, Career and Technical Education Partnerships and Program Coordinator at Bay Link Manufacturing, Bay Area Public School District.
The audience of about 120, comprised mostly by economic development professionals and educators, appeared to be genuinely interested in learning about workforce development. The program was entitled “Best in Class: Best in Manufacturing.”
The goal of the program was to explore the unique “best practices” of work-based/school-based educational models each of the organizations represented has put in motion to increase awareness and skill development, as well as promote leadership within Wisconsin’s manufacturing workforce.
Mike Reader recaps the panel presentations: “Michael Shiels led off the program by explaining what Dual Enrollment Academy is doing to attract and develop talent for the area employers. Lori Peacock talked about Bay Link Manufacturing, an entity which exists as part of Green Bay West High School, and which was modeled after the successful Cardinal Manufacturing program at Eleva-Strum High School.”
Mike Reader’s presentation included a slideshow outlining the thirteen steps Precision Plus has taken to help close the skills gap. Reader also talked about the reason why his company gets involved at all levels: “We need to change/correct the outdated perception of manufacturing,” he explained. He concluded by encouraging the audience to get involved in supporting the growth of manufacturing in Wisconsin and the initiatives that will result in career opportunities for many.
The program was followed by a Q&A session. Barb LaMue, Sector Development Manager of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), moderated the presentation, and shortly followed up with this email:
Michael, I just wanted to drop you a quick note to thank you for presenting last Thursday at the Governor’s Conference on Economic Development. Your devotion, passion, and knowledge of connecting young adults to meaningful education and careers certainly was evident. Your panel received the top evaluation scores. Thank you for your continued investment in Wisconsin and being such a manufacturing champion!
On behalf of Precision Plus and the Wisconsin manufacturing industry, Mike Reader welcomes any opportunity to inform, educate and engage with others about the future of manufacturing. He can be contacted via email or by phone.
