The seven-county Southeastern Wisconsin region, including Milwaukee and Kenosha, accounts for nearly one-third of the state's residents and jobs. This area has traditionally relied on the steadily receding manufacturing industry as the backbone of its economy. Southeastern Wisconsin's economic transformation focuses on developing and retaining workers with specialized skills. Through a partnership with the regional 21st Century Learning Initiative, an effort is underway to change the K-12 system into a seamless proficiency-based K-16 system. The initiative incorporates the use of 21st century education and applied technology to achieve educational innovation. Another educational component of the region's transformation strategy includes a focus on youth STEM skills initiatives.
As a Second Generation WIRED region, Southeastern Wisconsin will continue to focus its efforts on creating jobs and empowering its workforce.
