Forbes has named UW-Milwaukee as one of the best employers in Wisconsin.
America’s Best Employers by State 2026 includes organizations employing more than 500 people. UWM was one of just 75 organizations to make the list in Wisconsin, and one of just four institutions of higher education. Just 1,365 employers made the list nationwide.
Makda Fessahaye, associate vice chancellor and chief human resources officer at UWM, noted that the university provides a strong and rewarding work environment for its employees, which in turn makes the university stronger.
“We are honored to be recognized by Forbes as one of the nation’s best employers,” Fessahaye said. “At UWM, creating a positive employee experience is a strategic priority because we know that our people are the driving force behind our mission. This recognition reflects the dedication our employees bring to supporting student success every day. We remain committed to cultivating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work.”
To compile the list, Forbes partnered with Statista to survey more than 245,000 people working in all industry sectors over a three-year period. Participants were asked to consider how likely they were to recommend their employer, and were also surveyed on their employer’s atmosphere, salary, company culture, working conditions, company image and workplace environment.
Participants were also asked to evaluate their previous recent employers and organizations they knew within their industry or through friends or family who work there.
UWM employs more than 7,000 people, including student workers.
