APPLETON, WI — Congressional candidate Mark Scheffler today announced a sweeping economic development vision to position Northeast Wisconsin as a national leader in aviation innovation by connecting local agriculture, renewable energy, aircraft manufacturing, and workforce training into a unified regional strategy.
The plan, titled “Field to Flight,” outlines how the region can produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from locally and regionally grown crops, manufacture next-generation light aircraft, and train a skilled workforce through Wisconsin’s technical colleges.
“This is about building the future right here at home,” said Mark Scheffler. “We have everything we need—farmers, manufacturers, innovators, and educators. My job is to connect those strengths and bring federal support back to Northeast Wisconsin so we can lead in one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.”
A Regional Strategy Built on Local Strengths
Scheffler’s plan highlights four key pillars:
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production:
Expanding markets for Wisconsin farmers by converting crops like soybeans and camelina into low-emission jet fuel. - Aircraft Manufacturing Growth:
Attracting and supporting light sport and experimental aircraft production, leveraging the region’s deep manufacturing expertise. - Workforce Development:
Aligning technical college programs with aviation, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy careers. - Aviation Hub Expansion:
Building on partnerships at Appleton International Airport with industry leaders like Gulfstream Aerospace and Allegiant Air.
Leveraging a Unique Regional Advantage
Scheffler also emphasized the strategic role of Oshkosh as the global center of experimental aviation through the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA).
“No other region in America has this combination of agricultural strength, aviation culture, and technical expertise,” Scheffler said. “We should be the place where the next generation of aviation is built and fueled.”
The plan also points to opportunities for collaboration with regional energy distributors to scale fuel distribution infrastructure.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Scheffler’s “Field to Flight” strategy is designed to:
- Create high-paying, skilled jobs across multiple industries
- Open new, stable revenue streams for farmers
- Keep energy production and investment local
- Position Northeast Wisconsin as a leader in sustainable aviation
Federal Leadership to Bring It Home
Scheffler underscored the importance of federal partnership in making the vision a reality, including securing investment for sustainable aviation fuel production, workforce training, and regional airport development.
“This is exactly the kind of forward-looking, pro-growth, sustainable investment the federal government should be making,” Scheffler said. “I’m running for Congress to make sure Northeast Wisconsin is first in line.”
About Mark Scheffler
Mark Scheffler is an Independent Democrat running for Congress in NE Wisconsin’s 8th District. A retired financial advisor and entrepreneur, Scheffler is leading a people-powered campaign focused on sustainable economic growth, community strength, and long-term prosperity.
Media Contact:
Mark Scheffler for Congress
920/257-3094
info@mark4wi.info
https://mark4wi.info
View Complete Policy Post Here:
https://www.mark4wi.info/post/from-field-to-flight
