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From the Bank of Prairie du Sac to the Watertown Regional Medical Center and Spacesaver Corporation in Fort Atkinson, our graduates land great jobs at more than 580 unique regional employers.
Often, it’s the partnerships we forge with employers to tailor programs and teach in-demand skills that make our students workforce ready. In addition, with 76% of our graduates staying and working in our district, companies can feel confident they are investing in people who are likely to stay and grow in their roles.
Jeff Westra, business services manager of the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin says, “Madison College is a valued partner in the region, providing access to education that aligns with our goals and upskilling needs for the region’s workforce.”
The programs we offer to post-high school students in healthcare disciplines, manufacturing, and construction are vital components to ensuring a strong regional workforce. Equally important are our partnerships with local employers and school districts that help high school students explore careers in these fields.
Instilling early interest in manufacturing
Flambeau, Inc., a plastics manufacturer in Baraboo, has been instrumental in supporting programs like Mini Manufacturing World, designed to spark students’ interest in opportunities in manufacturing. Jason Sauey, chairman and CEO of the Nordic Group of Companies (Flambeau’s corporate parent), says, “It’s important that people realize the breadth of career paths in the manufacturing sector. We employ people from entry-level positions to professional, managerial and technical roles. There are very meaningful opportunities that these students can realize by getting good instruction and vocational technical training, and we’re happy to be part of that fabric.”
These initiatives with our workforce partners benefit both the college and the employers. Students who attend our camps and events like Mini Manufacturing World may go on to become students, apprentices and then well-trained, workforce-ready employees.
Todd Spencer is vice president of human resources for Kruger Family Industries in Portage, and one of the original organizers of Mini Manufacturing World. He looks at the program as part of their long-term strategy. “We’re not going to see the benefits of our involvement right away. But we have to turn kids on to manufacturing to ensure that we have a future workforce. Manufacturing is the foundation of this country, and we know that right now, our young people don’t hear this.”
Henry Shortreed, a recent Portage High School graduate, is a testament to the powerful impact of early exposure to our programs and the career pathways they can create. For years, he has attended the welding and metal campus at the Portage campus and participated in Mini Manufacturing World. This fall, Henry will pave the way for his future as he starts classes at Madison College to earn his construction and remodeling certificate.
As the needs of area employers evolve, we will continue to adapt our programs to ensure that graduates continue to meet the region’s workforce needs.
