Many businesses in the U.S. are challenged with trying to figure out how to deal with, and how they will be affected by, federal health care reform.

As the Affordable Care Act is implemented, employers' vested stakes in the health and well-being of their employees will be greater than ever.

"Dear Joan:

Question:

“I’m part of a team that’s been challenged by management to pick up the pace. No one disputes the need for us to do a better job. We aren’t very cohesive. There are strained relationships and grudges that aren’t left behind. Our meetings don’t settle anything. A few people do all the talking. Being told to, ‘fix it,’ hasn’t really helped matters. We seem to be spinning our wheels, especially in the communication area. Can you offer some suggestions for getting us pointed in the right direction?”

Strong leadership is more than a competitive advantage. It separates world-class companies from the rest.

Stress can cause massive physical changes in the body. When we perceive a threat, the body floods with stress hormones and our adrenalin accelerates the body's ability to respond rapidly. Heart rate and breathing increase, muscles tense and we sweat more as the body goes into "fight or flight" mode to deal with the perceived danger.

At first glance, it would seem counterintuitive to think that Milwaukee, in the midst of a cold Wisconsin winter, would be a national hotspot for solar energy.

The City of Milwaukee implemented its Milwaukee Shines program in 2009 to promote both solar manufacturing and installation while working to lower the costs. It piggybacks on the existing Milwaukee Energy Efficiency, or Me², program.

Manufacturers are responsible for finding a solution to the skills gap and taking ownership of the future of their industry.

HellermannTyton has completed the renovations of its new Milwaukee manufacturing facility but is still having difficulty hiring enough skilled workers to fill it.

Eight Wisconsin companies were awarded Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards Thursday night.