Iron Range entrepreneur promotes local manufacturing growth

In Minnesota's Iron Range, an entrepreneur is working to grow local manufacturing and create value at home. Jason Wobbema, CEO of Advanced Machine Guarding Solutions, opened his factory in Hibbing four years ago. He aims to build products locally rather than sending raw materials away. Historically, manufacturing jobs in northeastern Minnesota are limited, with only about 2.8% of the state's manufacturing jobs located there. Recently, job numbers have recovered above pre-COVID levels. However, Wobbema faced challenges, like a lack of local investment for manufacturing. Although he has a successful business model, attracting investors to Hibbing is difficult. Wobbema’s company produces automated safety equipment, competing globally despite local struggles. It employs 19 people and is expanding into a new facility funded partly by a local development agency. However, there's a need for more local financial support to keep businesses thriving. The future for rural Minnesota manufacturing relies on embracing change and supporting local entrepreneurs. Combining good ideas with local investment is essential. The goal is to transform existing resources into valuable products, creating wealth and job opportunities in the community.