The original item was published from October 17, 2025 10:06 AM to October 17, 2025 11:51 AM
DATE: October 17, 2025
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Stephanie Trottier
(763) 295-2711 | Stephanie.Trottier@MonticelloMN.gov
Monticello, MN – The City of Monticello Industrial and Economic Development Committee (IEDC) hosted its annual Manufacturers Appreciation Breakfast on Friday, October 10, at 7 a.m. in the Monticello Community Center. This event recognizes local manufacturers’ impact and contributions to the community. The City of Monticello Economic Development Authority, Xcel Energy, North Star Bank, Sherburne State Bank, and the National Bank of commerce sponsored the event.
This year’s breakfast focused on the economic trends currently impacting manufacturers, as well as the connection to tomorrow’s workforce. The event featured two keynote speakers: King Banaian, Ph. D, Professor of Economics and Director of the Center for Policy Research and Community Engagement at St. Cloud State University, and Jill Kedrowski, 8th grade STEM Instructor at Monticello Public Schools.
King Banaian presented on the “triple challenge” facing manufacturers in Wright County, identifying three conditions that manufacturers must now design for: high interest rates, a changed tariff policy, and a falling labor supply. He proposed automation as a key solution, not to replace workers, but to complement them. Banaian emphasized that manufacturers benefit most when automation is integrated as a supportive tool alongside their existing workforce. He described an approach that involves redesigning roles to incorporate automated processes, training employees in setup and troubleshooting, and focusing on productivity rather than payroll as a performance metric. Banaian also highlighted the strength and availability of local companies capable of designing, building, and servicing automation systems, reinforcing the importance of community-based innovation. His overarching message was that manufacturers must be resilient, inventive, and rooted in their communities to successfully navigate the three challenges posed to them.
Jill Kedrowski, accompanied by her 8th grade STEM students, shared an overview of the Monticello Middle School Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) lab. In this program, students have access to various STEM modules, including CAD and Design, Criminalistics, Dentistry, Electricity and Electronics, Energy and Power, Flight and Drone Technology, Home Maintenance Systems, Engineering and Design, Medical Imaging, Nursing, Research and Development, and more. Students in 7th and 8th grade are welcome to join the STEM lab to explore their interests and grow their skills. Students in attendance spoke about their experience and projects in the lab, including models of their projects. The City recognizes the importance of these educational opportunities, as they are crucial opportunities for the future generation to develop essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, preparing young innovators for the next generation of STEM careers.
Employment in the manufacturing sector is 30 percent more concentrated in Minnesota than the national average. Minnesota has more than 8,500 manufacturers that employ more than 331,000 Minnesotans. Looking forward, Minnesotan firms expect to create an additional 93,000 new manufacturing jobs in the State through 2032, making manufacturing a reliable career pathway. Some of those future positions may be here in Monticello.
An estimated 53 percent of Monticello’s tax base is derived from manufacturing. Of all Monticello businesses, 10 percent are manufacturers. As of 2020, Monticello manufacturers employ over 2,500 people, with over 1,600 manufacturing jobs being added to Monticello since 1988. Today, Monticello’s manufacturers employ 23 percent of the City’s workforce. Xcel, the City’s largest employer, has 630 workers.
This year’s City presentation highlighted several manufacturer expansions in Monticello in recent years. This includes Jensen Precision Machining, which completed a 12,000 square foot expansion this year at their facility located at 1335 Dundas Circle. This brings their facility to a total space of 26,000 square feet. Jensen Precision Machining specializes in production machining, including milling, turning, and Swiss machining. WiHa Tools was recognized for their business expansion in 2024, bringing an additional 75,000 square feet to their facility at 516 E 7th Street. WiHa tools is a long-time Monticello manufacturer, offering over 4,000 products from their headquarters in Monticello. Suburban Manufacturing, Inc. saw a 21,000 square foot expansion in 2023, bringing their facility at 10531 Dalton Avenue Northeast to 60,000 square feet. Suburban Manufacturing sells its own branded fluid power products and provides contract services for other companies. These companies are just a few examples of local excellence in manufacturing.
The Manufacturers Appreciation Breakfast highlights the essential role that local manufacturers play in Monticello’s economy and fosters connections between future talent and existing industry leaders. As Monticello continues to thrive as a hub for manufacturing excellence, events like these reinforce the City’s commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled workers, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable economic future. The collaboration among local businesses, education institutions, and community leaders is vital for promoting career opportunities in manufacturing, paving the way for continued growth and innovation in Monticello.
The City’s Industrial and Economic Development Committee (IEDC) is a volunteer organization appointed by the Monticello City Council. The IEDC advocates for industrial and economic growth within the City of Monticello by promoting awareness and communication efforts on behalf of the business community. Manufacturers are invited to join the IEDC for next year’s event on Friday, October 9, 2026.