Election Day Made a Difference: Expanding Our Manufacturing Sector as part of a Green Economy

Good Jobs - CWA 4640 - Kathy Brenden - I

Dave Hinkley USW 3740 Recording secretary (4)

“Wisconsin's workforce is second to none in terms of productivity, skill and quality. This is an extremely valuable asset as we transition into a green economy,” says Phil Neuenfeldt, Wisconsin State AFL-CIO Secretary Treasurer. “In large part because of our politically active labor movement, Wisconsin is making the investments needed to keep our manufacturers and personnel on the cutting edge."

Craig olsen UAW local 180 financial Secretary (4)

The Wisconsin State AFL-CIO’s Good Jobs Agenda scored a high profile victory last month when the Green to Gold bill proposed by Sen. Julie Lassa and Rep. Cory Mason was signed into law.

Green to Gold will create a revolving loan fund which will align existing state resources and federal dollars to ensure that Wisconsin’s manufacturers have the capital they need to invest in energy efficiency, use renewable energy, and make products that support a green economy.

“We are very excited about this legislation,” says Secretary Treasurer Neuenfeldt. “Reducing energy costs through efficiency makes manufacturers more competitive and profitable and creates high quality green jobs retooling existing facilities. This is a win for business, workers and our environment.”

Green to Gold was just one of several important measures that passed during the 2009-2010 Legislative Session which will position Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector to grow and lead in a greener economy. The Legislature approved $5.2 million dollars more than what was originally budgeted for the Wisconsin Technical College System, which

amounts to a $1.84 million dollar increase over the next two years. Funding for student financial aid was also increased.

This is the first statewide increase for the Wisconsin Technical College System in many years. It will help people gain and maintain essential skills for the green jobs of the future.

“In 2008, we elected strong leaders who are committed to green manufacturing in Wisconsin. In 2010, we have to work hard to keep them and add to their ranks,” concludes Wisconsin State AFL-CIO Executive Vice President and Political Director Sara Rogers. “Now is the time to start volunteering with the member to member political program.”

For more information about victories achieved during the 2009-2010 State Legislative Session, click here to read a detailed report.

(In the photos above union leaders and volunteers from around the state show their support for the Wisconsin Good Jobs Agenda, which includes expanded green manufacturing.

Top Row (from left to right): Chad Whiteside, Business Representative for UFCW Local 1473; Kathy Brenden, Political Coordinator for CWA Local 4640; Jack and Bruce Bollerud (Father and Son) of SEIU local 1 and WEAC respectively; Dave Hinkley, Recording Secretary of USW Local 3740; OPEIU Local 39 member Sarah Przybylski. Photo on the Right: UAW Local 833 members Andrew Segovia and Mike Cline. Left Column (from top to bottom): Craig Olsen, Financial Secretary for UAW Local 180; John Valko, President of UAW Local 180; Joel Kapusta, Business Agent for IBEW Local 159.