Wisconsin's Youth Apprenticeship Program
February 25, 2025
Building the Workforce of Tomorrow
Wisconsin's Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program offers a unique opportunity for employers to connect with the next generation of workers while addressing workforce needs. Designed to combine hands-on learning with classroom instruction, YA bridges the gap between education and career, preparing students for a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and beyond.
Why Get Involved?
Participating in the YA program can be a win-win for both employers and students. Employers gain access to motivated young talent eager to learn, while students get real-world experience that shapes their future career paths. This partnership helps build a trusted relationship between your business and the local consortium that administers the program.
How to Get Started
- Connect with Your Consortium: Your first step is reaching out to your local YA consortium. These organizations are dedicated to understanding your company’s needs and matching you with the right students. Find your local consortium at YA Consortium Directory.
- Learn from Peers: Speak with other businesses that have implemented YA programs. Their insights can help you create a successful program tailored to your organization.
- Plan for Success: Consider how your company can make the experience meaningful for youth apprentices. Are there entry-level roles to engage them? Opportunities to rotate through different departments? Pathways to transition them into specialized full-time roles?
- Address Logistics: For industries like construction, travel can be a barrier for young workers. Consider solutions like partnering with nearby schools, facilitating carpooling, or supporting apprentices in obtaining driver’s licenses.
- Be Transparent: Clearly communicate what the job entails—whether it’s outdoor work, physical labor, or unique challenges. Honesty helps set expectations for students and their families.
- Start Small: If a full apprenticeship program feels overwhelming, ease into the process by offering workshops, job site tours, or presentations at local schools.
The Role of Mentorship
A key component of YA is mentorship. Selecting the right mentor can make or break the experience for the apprentice. Mentors should be approachable, patient, and committed to guiding young workers.
A Strategic Investment
Think of YA as a "try-before-you-buy" system. These programs allow you to evaluate whether a student is a good fit for your company’s culture and long-term workforce needs. Even if you’ve already hired a student, you can still reach out to the consortium to register them in the YA program and unlock additional benefits for their development.
Investing in Wisconsin's Youth Apprenticeship program isn’t just about meeting today’s workforce demands—it’s about building a stronger future for your business and community.
Ready to take the next step? Visit Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship to learn more!
Madison, WI — June 23, 2025 — Wisconsin’s water infrastructure is at a critical crossroads with federal investment transforming outdated systems and protecting public health. However, the success of these initiatives depends on sustained funding from Washington, D.C. State and local leaders are urging Congress to make ongoing water infrastructure investment a national priority. Why Continued Federal Support is Crucial Aging Infrastructure Needs: Much of Wisconsin’s water infrastructure is nearing the end of its functional life. Without regular investment, lead service lines, failing wastewater systems, and outdated stormwater management pose significant risks to public health and safety. Emerging Challenges: Contaminants like PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” threaten water safety in communities across the state. Continued funding ensures we can detect, remove, and prevent these hazards. Economic Impact: Federal funding supports thousands of jobs in construction, engineering, and manufacturing while providing cost savings to municipalities and ratepayers. A lapse in funding could halt these benefits. The Success of Federal Funding So Far Wisconsin has been a model of effective use of federal resources. Since the enactment of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL): The state has received over $900 million for water infrastructure projects. $402 million has been allocated to address emerging contaminants like PFAS. Communities of all sizes have benefited from grants and below-market loans, with special attention given to underserved areas. This progress underscores the need for continued federal support to maintain momentum and address long-standing water issues. A Call to Action for Wisconsin Residents and Leaders “Water infrastructure is the backbone of our communities, safeguarding health and supporting economic growth. We must ask Congress to continue investing in these essential systems,” said Ruth Hackney, Executive Director of WUCA. Continued federal funding will empower Wisconsin to: Replace remaining lead service lines, protecting children and families. Modernize aging wastewater systems to prevent flooding and pollution. Combat PFAS contamination and other emerging threats to water safety. Why Your Voice Matters Wisconsin residents and leaders have the power to influence federal priorities. By contacting elected officials, we can ensure that water infrastructure remains at the forefront of the national agenda. How to Take Action: Contact Your Representatives: Share why clean water matters to your community and ask for ongoing water infrastructure funding in future budgets. Engage Locally: Advocate for projects that showcase the importance of federal funding in your city or town. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and community organizations championing water initiatives.
October 23, 2025 Weissgerber's Golden Mast Inn - W349 N5293, Lacys Ln, Okauchee Lake, WI 53069 WUCA's annual fundraising dinner and auction is a testament to the association's commitment to community. This impactful event brings together industry professionals, their families, and guests to raise vital funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin. Event Highlights: Fundraising for a Worthy Cause : The auction features a wide array of donated items, including unique experiences, vacation packages, construction equipment, and tools. All proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, helping to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses. Inspiring Stories : The event showcases the transformative power of a wish, sharing heartwarming stories of Wish Kids whose lives have been positively impacted by the generosity of others. Networking Opportunities : Connect with colleagues and industry leaders in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere while supporting a worthy cause. By participating in this event, you not only contribute to a great cause but also demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in the lives of children facing challenging circumstances. Join WUCA in its mission to build hope and create lasting memories for Wish Kids across Wisconsin. About Make-A-Wish : The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a beacon of hope and joy for children facing critical illnesses and their families. Dedicated to granting the wishes of these courageous children, the foundation believes in the transformative power of a wish come true. From meeting their favorite celebrity to experiencing thrilling adventures or traveling to dream destinations, Make-A-Wish creates magical moments that provide respite from the challenges of illness and instill a sense of hope and strength. With the support of donors, volunteers, and community partners, Make-A-Wish has touched the lives of countless children worldwide, bringing smiles, laughter, and cherished memories during some of life's toughest battles.
May 5, 2025
