Hiring Trends for Sheboygan, WI Manufacturing Jobs in 2026

Sheboygan County is more than just a place to work. It is a community where careers and family life can thrive together. With a strong manufacturing sector, which is responsible for 36.3% of jobs, and a low unemployment rate, Sheboygan, WI continues to attract professionals from across the country who want meaningful work and family-friendly neighborhoods.

To dig deeper into what is driving this growth, I spoke with Sara Chang, an HR recruiter for a local manufacturing company. She shared her perspective on hiring trends, workforce changes, and why Sheboygan remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Q & A with HR Recruiter Sara Chang

Q1: Can you tell my readers a little bit about how you decided to become a recruiter?

Sara: I’ve been recruiting in manufacturing for the past 11 years. My passion for this field is very personal. My parents moved to Wisconsin from California in the late 1990s in search of work. At the time, opportunities were limited for individuals like them because they had no formal education and spoke very limited English. My parents saw that through hard work, manufacturing jobs can offer stability. So, they took a chance and moved across the country.

Seeing them work in manufacturing since I was a child inspired me to dedicate my career to hiring in this space. I wanted to help provide real opportunities for growth and upward mobility for people with the same work ethic. Sheboygan County continues to be a market leader in manufacturing and I’m proud to support employers and candidates in an industry that truly changes lives.

Q2: Your parents’ story is an example of how manufacturing has been and continues to be an important pathway for so many families. As we look forward towards the new year, what do you think is the biggest recruiting challenge for local manufacturing?

Sara: One of the biggest challenges is the skills gap in manufacturing. We’re seeing a large number of experienced workers retire before they can transfer their knowledge and technical skills on to others. Many employers are being proactive by investing in training programs, upskilling entry-level workers, and partnering with educational institutions.

However, there’s a broader challenge as well. People just aren’t interested in hands-on work. Technology has shifted expectations toward more screen-based roles and being remote, while manufacturing remains physically demanding. At the same time, automation and AI continue to reshape the workforce, making it even more critical to attract and develop skilled trades talent.

Q3: That’s a great point, especially with technology and AI changing the landscape so quickly. How has that changed the skills employers are looking for today compared to just a few years ago?

Sara: Compared to five years ago, adaptability and flexibility are now the most important skills. The pandemic changed how people think about work and work-life balance. After going remote, people are now struggling to transition back to on-site. Because of this shift, employers are looking for workers who can adapt quickly, stay open to change, and navigate evolving policies and workplace norms. In manufacturing especially, where on-site collaboration is essential, being flexible and willing to adjust has become just as important as technical skills.

Q4: That makes a lot of sense, especially as workplaces continue to adjust post-pandemic. What recruiting trends will shape manufacturing in 2026?

Sara: A major trend is collaboration. I’ve attended several workforce symposiums and joint initiatives that bring together schools, employers, and community partners. The shared focus is on building the next generation of manufacturing talent. Employers are actively working to bridge the skills gap by rethinking how they attract and engage younger workers to make manufacturing more approachable, innovative, and appealing. That includes early exposure through education, modernized training programs, and clearer career pathways within the industry.

Q5: I agree that showing young people that manufacturing is a legitimate and rewarding career is very important. What advice do you have for someone relocating to Sheboygan County for work?

Sara: I’ve been in that exact position myself. When it comes to both career and housing, my biggest piece of advice is to really think about whether this place has the amentities that you and your family want. I grew up here in Sheboygan but moved to Milwaukee after I graduated from high schhol because I loved the energy and options of a bigger city. Years later, I came back for work and to raise my family because I wanted a quieter, slower pace for my kids.

There are trade-offs no matter where you live. We definitely miss Milwaukee’s shopping, food scene, and variety, but living in Sheboygan has allowed us to save more and be more intentional about our priorities. That shift becomes even more important once you have kids. and your spouse may also need to explore new career opportunities. Small-town living really changes how you think about spending, time, and long-term goals.

Q6 (Fun Question): I appreciate you sharing that personal experience. With that being said, what’s your go-to Sheboygan spot when you want to unwind after work?

Sara: Honestly, home. Spending time with my girls, cooking a good dinner, and relaxing with a movie when schedules allow is my favorite way to unwind. We also love visiting the public library. My girls get so excited about checking out new books, and it’s one of our favorite local spots.

Sheboygan County is an Excellent Choice for Career and Family

Sara’s story is a great example of what makes Sheboygan County stand out. Manufacturing here is not just about jobs. It is about stability, opportunity, and long-term growth for individuals and families. While the industry faces challenges like the skills gap and changing workforce expectations, employers across the county are actively investing in people, training, and collaboration to build a strong future.

For professionals considering a move, Sheboygan offers more than a paycheck. It offers affordable housing, supportive employers, and a lifestyle that allows families to slow down and prioritize what matters most. Whether you are relocating for work, exploring career opportunities, or looking for a community where you can truly put down roots, Sheboygan County continues to prove that it is a place where careers and family life can grow together.