WiM Southern Wisconsin | Built to Touch: A Hands-On Manufacturing Experience

 Join WiM Southern Wisconsin for

Built to Touch: A Hands-On Manufacturing Experience

Date:
Thursday, April 23, 2026

Time:
4:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. CT

Location:
Standard Iron
1055 W Sumner Street
Hartford, WI 53027

Cost to Attend:
WiM Member = $10
Nonmembers = $20

Join Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Southern Wisconsin for an engaging, behind-the-scenes experience at Standard Iron’s Hartford facility on Thursday, April 23rd. This local manufacturer is opening its doors to give members an inside look at how innovative engineering, workforce development, and automation come together to deliver high-value solutions for customers.

This event is designed as an interactive, rotating station experience, giving attendees direct exposure to multiple aspects of modern manufacturing operations. Participants will move through 3 hands-on and educational stations, each focused on a unique takeaway:

Hartford Skunkworks Lab – Discover how thoughtful engineering and hydraulic system design create real customer value. This station includes a hands-on element for a closer look at how hydraulics work in applied solutions.

Weld Boot Camp – Learn how Standard Iron develops technical talent by hiring general labor and building skilled welders in-house when experienced talent is hard to find.

Robotics & Automation – See how automation and robotics are used to meet customer demand while increasing efficiency and consistency.

Throughout the evening, you’ll gain practical insight into how manufacturers can blend engineering innovation, workforce development, and automation to stay competitive and customer-focused.

After the tour stations, we’ll wrap up with closing remarks followed by a networking social hour featuring light snacks and drinks (attendees will receive 1–2 drink tickets). A short keynote-style reflection from event hosts will tie together the themes of engineering value and manufacturing innovation.

We can't wait to see you!