Gov. Walker On Foxconn: Focus Is On Construction, Hiring Skilled Workers

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker says the state has several things to do to make the planned Foxconn Technology Group factory in Racine County a reality.

Last week, amid much fanfare, Walker and Foxconn Chairman Terry Gou signed the $3 billion contract with the electronics manufacturer.

Walker said his administration will next help make sure Foxconn connects with construction companies across Wisconsin. He also said he’ll focus on teaming up with higher education and the private sector to make sure there are enough skilled workers for both Foxconn’s factory and other companies.

“I don’t want to have this to be a matter of hiring people but taking it from other businesses. I want to add people working in the state on top of what we already have in the employment mix. And so it’s gonna take a lot of help,” Walker said in an interview Friday.

Walker said state agencies like the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will be involved reviewing environmental permits for the factory, and other departments will help Racine County communities with infrastructure needs.