GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Congressman Mike Gallagher says schools need to do a better job in singing the praises of going to school to help fill openings in factory jobs.
“It is a cultural shift of telling the next generation that if you want to work with your hands, there are plenty of good jobs available for you.”
As the Congressman toured Fox Valley Metal-Tech this week, he said he was frustrated to hear that the company is having a hard time finding skilled workers.
Kevin Gosselin, Director of Sales and Business Development says it comes down to education and experience because they need skilled workers for manufacturing equipment for the US Navy.
“Welding to very tight specifications. If we are welding for products on an aircraft carrier or submarine, we have to know that we have the right the people who are qualified to meet the welding specifications of that specific job.”
Gosselin says they need highly skilled welders.
“Not the guy that is pressing the button on a robotic welding machine and calling himself a welder.”
Gallagher says there are many benefits to doing just two years of school for a specific skill.
“You will make a great living without saddling yourself with a mountain of debt and do it making cool things that go on our aircraft carriers.”
Fox Valley Metal-Tech has job openings and currently employees 140 people.
