The state Department of Workforce Development awarded $23,249 in Wisconsin Fast Forward grants to three school districts throughout the state.
The Advanced Manufacturing Technical Education Equipment grants help train students and address the state’s skilled workforce shortage.
School districts will use the funding to expand career pathway options by upgrading technical education training equipment and facilities.
“Fast Forward grants help prepare our future workforce for careers in high-demand, high-skill industries,” DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said in a statement. “The state-of-the-art equipment, including laser cutters, welders and advanced wood fabrication tools, will enable schools to provide coursework that aligns with industry standards and strengthens our state’s advanced manufacturing workforce.”
These grants may also reduce higher education costs for families through dual enrollment credits, industry-endorsed certificates and technical endorsements on high school diplomas.
The current round of grants will support the following projects:
Hurley School District, Iron County | $5,892
Grant funds will be used to purchase a Cantek three-phase jointer and add a second laser engraver.
Parkview School District, Rock County | $10,190
The funds will be used to purchase a CNC plasma cutter and a CNC laser.
Turtle Lake School District, Barron County | $7,167
The funds will be used to update equipment and enhance safety with Miller Multimatic 220 AC/DC Welders and a Hypertherm Powermax Plasma Cutter.
