Search | Menu Apprentices awarded $228,000 to support careers in the trades
Madison College trade apprenticeship students are getting a boost in their education and careers, thanks to $228,000 in Ascendium Tools of the Trade grants.
The grant announcement comes as Madison College celebrates National Apprenticeship Week, April 26-May 2.
A total of 114 students received individual awards of up to $2,000 to support their training in high-demand fields such as electricians, industrial electricians, plumbers, machinists and telecommunications VDV installer technicians.
Apprentices can use the funds for training-related expenses such as tools, equipment, clothing and tuition, helping to reduce financial barriers and allowing them to focus on learning and advancing in their careers.
Supporting student success
Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne thanked Ascendium for supporting student success.
“Apprenticeships create real opportunities, giving students a direct path to in-demand careers while helping employers build their workforce,” Berne said. “Ascendium’s support removes financial barriers so more of our students can succeed and contribute to Wisconsin’s economy.”
Ascendium has awarded more than $8.8 million in scholarships to over 5,000 apprentices across Wisconsin in the last 13 years. Keith Witham, President and CEO of Ascendium, says apprenticeships are an important option for learners to find direct paths to good jobs and the scholarships help ensure states can be successful in those programs.
Increased popularity in apprenticeships
The scholarship awards come at a time of historic growth for apprenticeships in Wisconsin. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s 2023-2025 Biennial Report, enrollment in Wisconsin apprenticeships saw another unprecedented year in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of record participation. This data highlights the increasing popularity of apprenticeships as a pathway to a good job.
Madison College offers 23 apprenticeship programs where students combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing them to earn while they learn. Apprentices can explore opportunities in barbering, cosmetology, health science, nursing, STEM, trades and technology.
Learn more about Madison College Apprenticeship Programs.
