WHAT'S UP WITH THE LOCAL JOB MARKET? Professionals at CVTC, UWEC, UW-Stout, and career-focused businesses and organizations talk current trends and tips for those on the job hunt. (Photo via UW-Stout)

Economic uncertainty. Job layoffs and firing. Artificial intelligence (AI). These are just a few of the factors impacting the 2025 job market in the Chippewa Valley and beyond. “The Times They Are a-Changin," one of Bob Dylan's hits circa 1964, might well be the theme song for job searching in 2025. 

So, we reached out to some local professionals and experts to get their take on the current job market, both locally and nationally; what jobs are in most demand right now; how AI is affecting jobs and the job market; and, in their opinion, what’s the most efficient and effective way to look for – and land – a job right now?

Here's a key to the folks we chatted with, with the initials they'll be referred to as in the Q&A:

• FB: Forrest Buck, director of career development and first-year experience at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC)
• SH: Staci Heidtke, director of career services at UW-Eau Claire
• BB: Bryan Barts, director of career services at UW-Stout
• SM: Stephanie May, skilled manufacturing recruiter at SEEK Careers/Staffing in Eau Claire
• CU: Claire Urness, PHR, Chippewa Valley Society of Human Resources Management (CVSHRM)

In general, how's the job market looking right now in the U.S. and the Chippewa Valley?

• FB: "This is a bit of a nuanced question given actions of the current administration. However, in general terms, the U.S. job market still remains in a strong position. This continues to be the case in the greater Chippewa Valley with lower unemployment rates and continued job growth in our strongest industries."
• SH: "I am cautiously optimistic about the job market right now. The national unemployment rate shows hiring has slowed slightly compared to last year, but hiring is still happening. In the Chippewa Valley, employers continue to hire new grads and more seasoned employees. Job seekers are continually reminded to be competitive in the job market by following market trends and developing customized application materials. For all job seekers, it is important to stay adaptable and flexible about the industry they work in and showcase skill and knowledge to employers." 
• BB: "The job market overall is experiencing a period of adjustment. Many employers, especially those focused on the college/entry level talent market in the Chippewa Valley, remain active in hiring, but are becoming more strategic in their approach. According to the NationalAssociation of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the overall hiring projections by employer sacross the country for the college Class of 2025 are up slightly (0.6% from last year). This leveling off suggests a tightening market with more competition for jobs, despite the market still adding positions. An example of a strategy some employers are moving toward includes skills-based hiring. A process that reduces barriers to applicants thus increasing applicant pools and puts more focus on a candidate’s ability to do a task rather than GPA.”

"Remember that relationships matter, so investing time into building these alongside the others will be essential for success." –Bryan Barts

What jobs are most in demand right now?

• FB: "Matching our strongest industry, in demand jobs continue to live in the areas of healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation. The community has responded in stride to the healthcare disruptions last year, which has been a positive sign to see."
• SH: "Jobs in healthcare, manufacturing, skilled trades, and education continue to be in demand right now." 
• BB: "National data and reports show that most industries are continuing their hiring. Specific in-demand sectors, such as social services, engineering services, and construction, are at the top of the lists. There is also more emphasis to put on the value of career-readiness skills as more employers are actively seeking competencies, including communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. These core competencies are often prioritized over grade point average as screening tools. Employers strongly consider the following when vetting college students, specifically a student’s major, applied learning experiences like industry involved projects, as well as meaningful internship experience.”
• SM: "We’re seeing strong demand for production and assembly roles, machine operators, maintenance technicians, welders, machinists, administrative professionals, support staff, and more. In addition to technical skills, employers are placing high value on soft skills like reliability, communication, and adaptability. These qualities are often equally as important as technical experience in today’s evolving job market."
• CU: "Healthcare is always an in-demand industry, as well as manufacturing. Entry level retail/fast food are always in demand due to the nature of entry level jobs." 

How is AI affecting jobs and the job market?

• FB: "AI has continued to shift the job market and the market has continued to adjust. While there is a reality that AI has created some job displacement, it has also created new opportunities and expanded capabilities in many of our industries in the Chippewa Valley." 
• SH: "There are new jobs being created in cybersecurity and technology, machine learning, digital literacy, and the areas of policy and ethics, as related to AI. On the flip side, AI is being used to do some customer care type work, including scheduling and responding to chats, emails, and phone calls; as well as more creative work like editing and creating documents. Job seekers should pay attention to changes in their industry and consider ways they can adapt to a changing market."
• BB: "AI is having a significant and multifaceted impact on the job market. Current discussions around the impact in roles that have repetitive actions, such as scheduling appointments or responding to customers, or traditionally seen as entry-level are becoming more impacted. But there is also the growing trend coming from the creation of new job roles in data, analysis, and creative areas, driving upskilling and redeveloping skills clearly valued in many industries. Of course, it is already being seen in the sourcing, hiring, and overall recruitment landscape, as both companies and applicants are leveraging AI tools to give them more successes throughout all stages of the process”

• SM: "AI is reshaping the workplace by automating repetitive tasks and boosting efficiency, especially in administrative, logistics, and manufacturing roles. While some positions are evolving, this shift is also opening doors for workers to upskill, take on more strategic responsibilities, and increase their long-term career potential. Embracing AI and the changes associated can lead to exciting new opportunities. It is important for job seekers to understand that AI is a tool to use and not a replacement for the human element of job searching." 
• CU: "I think there are certain locations and industries that are more affected by AI. There’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding AI since it is still a relatively new technology. There are a lot of positive factors, but there can definitely be negatives. There have been articles written about AI providing false information as well as understanding if there is a security risk providing an AI bot information on your company. From the human resources perspective, those that use it to assist with hiring will have to ensure no biases are occurring in the AI process as well as applicants drafting resumes and cover letters by using AI, which may embellish some of their qualifications. I do think it’s a useful tool but will need to be used with caution. I personally have found some effective ways to use AI to help draft emails or social media posts for my board position with CVSHRM."

"It is important for job seekers to understand that AI is a tool to use and not a replacement for the human element of job searching." –Stephanie May, SEEK Careers/Staffing

How does a job applicant respond to an AI assistant when applying for a job?

• FB: "This is a great question, and frankly, it’s something I know some folks still struggle with. Yes, the AI assistant does exist, however we haven’t heard directly from students of it being as large of an issue. Some companies still do use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), a screening software, so we do still encourage students to use keywords to enhance their cover letters and resumes to make it through screening, while also being truthful. From our experience, companies in our area do try to actually review applicant information with real human beings, but we do understand the reality of some companies/third party folks using the ATS options. We do encourage our students to directly follow up via email or phone call to ensure a personal touch and connection to the company to which they’re applying.
  • This is one of the areas I believe I have seen a positive impact of AI (ChatGPT, CoPilot). A student being able to tailor and “beat the game” at times, with guidance and proper protocols, allows for a more equitable experience. Our team is exploring an AI Tool that would give students feedback on their resumes, based on our logic and language, to allow for more feedback and formatting. The tool also offers to compare job descriptions to your resume and see what may or may not be lacking in your experience that you are showcasing, and provide feedback for that."
• SM: "How does an applicant get in touch with a real person? Simply pick up the phone or visit our SEEK Eau Claire office, of course!  AI is a fancy, new, shiny tool that everyone is using – some companies/applicants use it too much, and others too little. I think the obvious primary question is: How can an applicant stand out in the AI world?
  • At SEEK, we continue to place a high value on real, personal connections. Whether it's a phone call, text, walking into one of our branches, or a direct conversation with our team, we always welcome personalized interactions with job seekers.
  • While we do leverage AI technology to help streamline parts of the application review process, it's important to remember that AI is guided by human insight. Our team works closely with these tools to define the criteria we look for in applications, such as relevant experience, education, and skill sets. These are the same qualities that have traditionally helped candidates stand out, long before the introduction of AI. The final decision on the status of any application or resume submitted to SEEK is done by a human employee at SEEK.
  • We encourage job seekers to focus on clarity, relevance, and alignment with the job description. Use straightforward language, incorporate keywords from the posting, and clearly highlight your experience and accomplishments to ensure your application is recognized by both hiring teams and the technology that supports them. If a job seeker is having a real problem getting past AI to a live person, despite attempts to call, text, email, or stop by, you may want to reconsider the company you are applying with." 
• CU: "What I would recommend is calling the company, even if it’s a generic line and ask to speak with someone in HR. Even if no one in HR answers or they send you to voicemail, leaving a voicemail stating that they applied and received an auto rejection from their AI, but believe they are qualified for the job and would like to discuss further with someone. That will at least tell them they may need to look further at the application and resume (at least that is what I would do in this situation)." 

"While (AI tools like ChatGPT) has helped close the equity gap for folks to make them more competitive, it is important to use these tools effectively and with integrity. Be sure to continue to tailor your information to ensure it sounds like you so you don't end up in a position where what you mentioned is out of your scope." –Forrest Buck, career development director at CVTC

What's the most efficient and effective way to look for a job right now?

• FB: "It is still important to diversify your job search techniques. To remain efficient, it is important to do your research on your industry ahead of time, while also becoming more familiar with your job search tools (LinkedIn, Indeed, Handshake, etc.)." 
• SH: "I realize people like to take advantage of easy-apply and quick application options, however, it is more efficient to have a focused goal and tailor each resume to a job. Recruiters are more likely to contact you when you have proven that you meet some of the qualifications of the role. Folks should focus on skills and relevant experience when applying for jobs. In addition to applying to posted positions, networking can be an effective job search tool. Talk to people in your field. Job seekers can often be referred by current and past employees of a company, and this leads to jobs."
• BB: "Job seekers need to use a multi-pronged and adaptive approach with some key areas and reminders. Our approach is to gather research to help inform your process, optimize your tools, develop strong documents, and maximize technologies. Leveraging these collectively to help you gain traction and build career capital, build connections, and market your skills are key to success. As mentioned, this may include leveraging AI tools, such as LinkedIn and Handshake, among others. Lastly, remember that relationships matter, so investing time into building these alongside the others will be essential for success. Always critically evaluate AI outputs and supplement with personal research.”
• SM: "Partnering with a staffing agency like SEEK can help streamline your job search by matching you with roles that fit your skills and career goals, often before the job is posted publicly. We strongly recommend keeping your resume current, exploring upskilling opportunities, networking regularly, and being open to new industries or evolving job responsibilities."
• CU: "If you’re looking for a job on a job board, I would recommend looking on Indeed for all positions. Each company should have a profile with employee reviews; it may be worth looking at the company profile and website before applying to ensure it’s a good fit. If it’s more of a professional level role, LinkedIn is always another great place to look. In general, the most efficient and effective way to look for a job is to network. Join a local group within your industry, find a mentor, job shadow, etc. Building a network of professionals can be super helpful in finding a job. This is not to say you cannot organically find a job, you definitely can, but developing those relationships can give you a leg up in the long run."

SIDEBAR: Some Stats

Statistics may show a rosier picture. In May 2025, the U.S. economy added 139,000 jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The national unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.2%. The unemployment rate is the percentage of the civilian labor force that is actively seeking employment but does not currently have a job.

The exact number of new jobs created in the Chippewa Valley in June is unavailable. However, the West Central Workforce Development Area projects strong long-term growth for the Chippewa Valley. Employment here is projected to grow by 20,793 jobs between 2022 and 2032, averaging about 2,079 new jobs annually. As of May 28, 2025, the unemployment rate in the Chippewa Valley, Wisconsin – which includes Eau Claire and Chippewa Counties – is 2.2%, below Wisconsin’s statewide average rate of 3.3%, and the national level.

Anything else to consider or you would like to add?

• FB: "In the spirit of AI, we have seen an increase of folks using tools like ChatGPT or CoPilot to generate resumes and cover letters for positions. While this has helped close the equity gap for folks to make them more competitive, it is important to use these tools effectively and with integrity. Be sure to continue to tailor your information to ensure it sounds like you so you don’t end up in a position where what you mentioned is out of your scope."
• SH: "Soft skills can’t be replaced by AI. I encourage job seekers to keep improving their skills and communicate their value to employers by demonstrating skills like teamwork, leadership, problem solving, and communication."
• SM: "This is a great time to reflect on your career and explore opportunities that offer growth, stability, and fulfillment. Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time, reentering the workforce, making a career change, or looking to advance your role, the Chippewa Valley continues to offer a wide range of meaningful employment options. At SEEK, we’re proud to support our community every step of the way. Our job is to help make the Chippewa Valley a great place to live and work!"
• CU: "I would like to stress the importance of developing relationships. If you are in the HR industry, joining your local SHRM chapter can provide a lot of educational opportunities. CVSHRM also provides networking opportunities within certain topics, where you can chat with other local HR professionals to gain different insights on how your business can improve or enhance how things are done. I also have found a ton of value in mentorship. CVSHRM offers a mentorship program in conjunction with UW Eau Claire, which can be fun and valuable to both the students and the HR Professionals. All are fantastic ways of networking. If you are not in HR, find a local or online group of individuals in your field to network and gain knowledge and contacts!"

SIDEBAR: Thoughts from UW-Eau Claire Graduate Jamie Kimiko Judkins

In a recent USA Today article, a recent college grad shared that all she could do is call up her mom and cry after applying for 50 jobs and not getting a single response. Echoes of May 2010, when Jamie Kimiko Judkins – a scholarship-awarded, hard-working UW-Eau Claire communications graduate – applied to 186 jobs over several months and got three interviews – and no job offers.

She nannied for her sister thinking she’d land a gig quickly. When that didn’t happen, she took a job in Milwaukee doing door-to-door sales selling coupons similar to Groupon today. Within three months, she was the national company’s No. 1 salesperson and trained others, yet few lasted more than a couple of weeks.

“The job was hard, oh so hard, and yet I wasn’t going to give up,” she shared in a phone interview. “It taught me a LOT, and I have no regrets.”

From there she went to work for the Off Price Show in B2B sales, headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin; and traveled to Las Vegas and New York City. She loved that job, and spoke to the CEO about potential opportunities for growth. While they valued her, there was no place to grow. From there, she moved on to opportunities where she could grow, in Chicago, and ultimately to a VP sales job in Los Angeles – her dream job and location. Then COVID hit.

“I grew up believing that corporate jobs provided stability, security, predictability, and consistency,” she shared. “And I came to the realization that I was the only person who could provide myself stability, security, predictability, and consistency.”

So, with 13 years of experience, she formed Jamie Kimiko Consulting. After a year, she realized she did not need a website. New clients reached out to her based on word of mouth, recommendations, and referrals from current and former clients. Her LinkedIn profile says it all: “I never fit in. I’m big, loud, and you can’t ignore me. So are my sales strategies. I’m Jamie, a sales ‘lifer,” TikTok addict, MRR* maniac, and dessert-first kinda gal!” ROCK ON JAMIE!

*Monthly Recurring Revenue, refers to the predictable monthly revenue a company expects from its customers.

Check out this top 10 tips roundup written by Barbara Arnold for a previous "Where The Jobs Are" issue, for additional relevant notes and tips.