How Rockwell Automation Strengthens Milwaukee Through United Way
January 27, 2026
Rooted in Milwaukee for more than a century, Rockwell Automation is investing in the community’s future by partnering with United Way to create lasting change.
For more than a century, Rockwell Automation has called Milwaukee home. What began in 1903 as the Allen-Bradley Company has grown into the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation. Yet its heart remains firmly rooted in Milwaukee.
“Our philanthropic approach is focused on investing in the communities where we live and work,” said Blake Moret, CEO of Rockwell Automation. “Milwaukee is our global headquarters, and we have a long legacy of supporting our home in ways that create opportunity and strengthen the community.”
Rockwell’s community investments focus on breaking down systemic barriers and creating opportunities through education, especially STEM education within Milwaukee Public Schools. Through partnerships with local schools and universities, Rockwell helps students explore what’s possible for their future careers. But, as Blake explains, education can’t thrive in isolation.
“If students are facing hunger, homelessness, or mental health challenges, then the educational opportunities we’re working to provide won’t have the impact we intend,” Blake said. “That’s why partnerships with organizations like United Way are so important — they address those critical needs.”
It’s why Rockwell regards United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County as a trusted partner, recognizing the nonprofit’s expertise in tackling complex, interconnected community issues. The company values United Way’s ability to mobilize resources and measure impact, which resonates with Rockwell’s strength in problem-solving.
Rockwell’s partnership with United Way ensures their employees’ time, resources, and volunteer efforts have the greatest possible impact. The company’s long-standing involvement in Seasons of Caring and kit-packing events exemplifies this partnership. Hundreds of Rockwell employees excitedly roll up their sleeves to make a difference while having fun.
“Working with United Way gives our employees a direct line of sight to the impact of their contributions, whether it’s time or resources,” Blake added. “Seeing how those efforts change lives matters to them. Because of this, we show up — and in numbers. That’s part of who we are as a company. Our people care deeply about making a difference.”
For Rockwell, giving back isn’t just about philanthropy; it’s about people. Volunteering together helps employees feel more connected to their community, their company, and one another. Those experiences foster empathy and understanding, replacing assumptions with real stories and faces.
“When you meet people and hear their stories, it changes your perspective,” Blake said. “It reminds us that these are our neighbors, and that caring for one another makes Milwaukee stronger. No one should face challenges alone. We all benefit when our community is stronger. When we come together, we can create lasting change.”
That belief — which encompasses collaboration, compassion, and hope — defines Rockwell Automation’s relationship with United Way. Whether through financial contributions, volunteer hours, or advocacy, the company and its employees are living proof that when businesses invest in their communities, everyone benefits.
“Hope is what gets people, children, and communities through difficult times,” Blake reflected. “And hope starts with action. At the end of the day, every dollar contributed to United Way represents an individual story and an individual benefitting. That’s what makes this work so meaningful.”
Top: Rockwell Automation employees at the 2025 Rockwell Automation Picnic; Middle: Rockwell Automation employees participate in games to celebrate the company's 2025 United Way Workplace Giving Campaign; Bottom: Rockwell Automation employees pack kits for Project Homeless Connect at their annual employee picnic.
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