As part of Manufacturing Month, a CEDC Collaborative Showcase was hosted by Ashley Furniture Industries in Chippewa Falls—spotlighting one of Chippewa Valley’s premier manufacturing facilities. Manufacturing Month is a national celebration in October that highlights the importance of the manufacturing industry to Wisconsin’s economy and helps promote careers in manufacturing.
For years, CEDC has proudly marked Manufacturing Month as a way to honor the region’s thriving manufacturing industry and highlight the critical role it plays in the Chippewa Valley’s economy. Each October, CEDC brings together local manufacturers, educators, community partners, and workforce development leaders to a collaborative showcase that highlights innovation, advanced technology, and skilled craftsmanship. Through these events, CEDC provides opportunities for stakeholders to see firsthand how manufacturing drives growth, creates quality jobs, and fuels innovation.
Since 1945, Ashley Furniture—known then as Arcadia Furniture Corporation—has been a cornerstone of manufacturing in Western Wisconsin, providing high-quality jobs and advancing modern manufacturing practices. In 2021 CEDC and stakeholders assisted Ashley Furniture in establishing a Chippewa Falls facility that plays a key role in the company’s national operations. “Manufacturing Month gives us the opportunity to highlight companies like Ashley Furniture that make Chippewa County thrive,” said CEDC President/CEO Charlie Walker. “they are a prime example of how investing in people and innovation fuels success—not just for a company, but for the entire community.” Attendees toured the production floor, observed cutting-edge automation and assembly systems, and learned how Ashley’s commitment to technology and workforce development keeps it at the forefront of the industry.
Strong local economies start with thriving businesses. Cities, counties, and states work to attract investment, grow their tax base, and create jobs—and manufacturing plays a huge role in making that happen. Ashley Furniture partners with over 6,500 U.S. suppliers, and its employees support countless other businesses across the region. Each of these businesses creates and sustains jobs, fueling even more economic activity in a ripple effect. In fact, every manufacturing job supports an estimated 4.4 additional positions and drives significant local spending, making companies like Ashley key drivers of community growth.
By maintaining this manufacturing month celebration tradition, CEDC not only celebrates the successes of Chippewa Valley manufacturers but also raises awareness of career opportunities and ensuring our region remains competitive in a rapidly evolving economy. We extend our sincere thanks to the Chippewa Falls Ashley team for hosting us and sharing their story.