Major Industries

In the early 20th century, West Allis became the namesake community of the Allis Chalmers Corporation, which was one of the first businesses to recognize West Allis' ideal location and vast opportunities. Other industrial concerns soon followed, and throughout the last century, West Allis was known as the "Center of Industry" in Wisconsin, a destination for skilled workers seeking meaningful careers in the thriving industries of the day.

In the 21st century, West Allis maintains a proud working-class ethic while pivoting to generate economic opportunities that are relevant to today's ever-changing environment. From large regional employers like Quad/Graphics and Advocate Aurora Health Care to a myriad of independently-owned, local neighborhood businesses, West Allis' economic portfolio has it all. 

employment by type

  • White collar: 62%
  • Blue collar: 23%
  • Services: 16%
  • Unemployment rate: 3.7%

Source: City of West Allis GIS Demographic Data 2019

largest employers*

  • Advocate Aurora West Allis Hospital Regional Hospital  
  • West Allis-West Milwaukee School District 
  • Quad Graphics Commercial Printing 
  • Brookdale Senior Living Assisted Care Health Provider  
  • Children’s Hospital – Summit Place Administrative Suites  
  • City of West Allis Municipal Government  
  • Aurora At Home (previous VNA) Home Health  
  • Wheaton Franciscan Medical 
  • Johnson Controls Engineering and IT  
  • Village at Manor Park Nursing Home/Assisted Living Facility  
  • Chr. Hansen Lab, Inc. Manufacturing  
  • Sullivan/Schein Dental Dental Equipment Distributors  
  • Milwaukee Area Technical College 

*Based on 2017 phone survey of local employers