Nicole Wolter, president and CEO of HM Manufacturing in Wauconda, joined Chicago’s Morning Answer with Dan Proft to discuss the company’s growth, new investments, and her advocacy for American manufacturing.
Wolter said her business, which produces power transmission components for industries ranging from aerospace to food processing, is preparing to invest $650,000 in new equipment and hire five additional employees. For a company with just over twenty workers, she called the expansion a major step forward. Wolter credited federal tax and manufacturing policy with opening the door to growth and noted that her team has embraced the new opportunities.
A second-generation leader of the family business her father founded in 1979, Wolter shared how she initially planned a career outside manufacturing but ultimately joined HM during the recession. She immersed herself in precision machining and management, eventually steering the company toward diversification and advanced technology. Today, HM Manufacturing serves customers across multiple sectors and provides apprenticeships and internships to local students.
While Wolter acknowledged challenges in recruiting skilled workers, she said her company has leaned into partnerships with high schools, community colleges, and trade associations to build a pipeline of talent. She emphasized the importance of showing young people the career opportunities available in manufacturing and offering financial support for training.
Despite frequent offers to relocate to states with friendlier tax climates, Wolter affirmed her commitment to keeping the company in Illinois. She argued that the state could help manufacturers by streamlining access to training grants and reducing red tape. For now, she remains focused on expansion, workforce development, and strengthening Illinois’ manufacturing base.