Econ Dev Show Podcast - Economic Development

164: Confronting Workforce Challenges in Wisconsin with Sadie Howell

Mar 10, 2025

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In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, host Dane Carlson talks with Sadie Howell with Envision Greater Fond du Lac, a combined Chamber of Commerce and economic development organization in Wisconsin.

Sadie shares insights about her region's economic landscape, including the surprising prevalence of small manufacturers and agricultural businesses that often goes unnoticed.

They discuss the challenges of workforce development, the advantages of a combined chamber-economic development approach, and the importance of understanding local politics and stakeholder dynamics.

As a long-time listener of the podcast before becoming a guest, Sadie offers valuable perspective on regional economic development strategies and the shared challenges that unite economic developers across different communities.

Ten Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Study the layout of your community's stakeholders, including their biases and politics, to identify which challenges you can overcome and which you should work around.
Recognize that most economic developers face similar challenges with boards, communities, and regional impacts - you're not alone.
Leverage the complementary strengths of chamber of commerce and economic development functions when possible.
Address workforce issues by coordinating efforts across regions rather than trying to solve everything at the local level.
Challenge misconceptions about your region by actively showcasing lesser-known economic assets like small manufacturers.
Connect local economic development priorities with state-level initiatives around talent attraction, childcare, and housing development.
Network with other economic developers to validate your experiences and gather new approaches to common challenges.
Consider how to tailor workforce programming specifically for chamber members while making entrepreneurship services broadly available.
Identify early in your planning process which obstacles can be overcome and which need to be circumvented.
Use podcasts and other learning resources to continuously build your economic development knowledge, especially in areas outside your expertise.

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Special Guest: Sadie Howell.