Sheboygan employers are facing the same workforce challenges as many across the nation—worker shortages due to demographic shifts and rising employment barriers like affordable childcare and transportation. However, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is stepping up to support local businesses with innovative solutions and programs that help them attract and retain talent.

Key Workforce Programs to Support Employers

One of the critical resources available is Wisconsin’s Work-Share Program, which allows businesses to avoid layoffs by reducing work hours for employees during slow periods. Workers can then receive prorated unemployment benefits, enabling them to stay employed while saving businesses the cost of training new employees when business picks back up. This program is particularly valuable for industries that experience seasonal or cyclical demand fluctuations.

Additionally, DWD’s Business Services Representatives are available through Job Centers in Wisconsin, providing personalized support for employers looking to fill positions. These experts help companies navigate recruitment and retention challenges, connect them with skilled candidates, and offer guidance on leveraging DWD’s workforce programs.

Unemployment Insurance Updates and Training for Employers

For Sheboygan businesses, the good news continues with unemployment insurance tax rates staying at their lowest schedule for the seventh year in a row. The DWD also offers Labor Law Clinics and Friday Fundamentals, which provide local employers with up-to-date training on labor laws, wage and hour requirements, and employee classification rules.

Moreover, the state is modernizing its unemployment insurance system to make it easier for employers to manage accounts, report wages, and respond to UI claims, adding even more efficiency to their operations.

A Strong Economy with Challenges Ahead

As Wisconsin’s economy continues to perform well, with record-high employment and near-record-low unemployment rates, businesses are still grappling with long-term worker shortages driven by an aging population and barriers to employment. Governor Evers has declared 2024 the Year of the Worker, and with programs like these in place, Sheboygan businesses have the tools they need to navigate the evolving workforce landscape and thrive.

For more information about these programs and to connect with DWD services, Sheboygan businesses can visit the DWD website to access the latest employer resources.

By utilizing these resources, local businesses can continue to grow while investing in Sheboygan’s economic future.

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) provides a wealth of information for employers regarding unemployment insurance, taxes, and workforce development. On their site, you can find the latest Unemployment Insurance (UI) news for employers, including updates on tax rates, workforce programs, and employer obligations.

Some of the key takeaways from their latest update include:

Tax Rates for 2025: Wisconsin’s unemployment tax rates will remain at the lowest rate schedule, Schedule D, for the seventh year in a row, reflecting the state’s strong UI Trust Fund balance.
Workforce Challenges: While Wisconsin’s economy is performing well, many employers face challenges in finding workers due to demographic shifts, including the retirement of Baby Boomers and barriers like affordable childcare and transportation. DWD emphasizes their Work-Share Program, which helps businesses avoid layoffs by reducing employees’ hours and allowing them to collect prorated UI benefits.
Interest Rate Changes: The interest rate on delinquent UI taxes may increase if the prime rate holds, with a projected 2025 rate of 10.5%.
Employer Training: DWD offers virtual Labor Law Clinics and Friday Fundamentals sessions where employers can learn about labor laws related to unemployment insurance, wage and hour rules, and vocational rehabilitation. These clinics are open to the public and provide materials for continuing education credits.

For more details or to access specific services like tax report filing, Work-Share plans, or required employer posters, visit their newsletter page.