Portage Mini Manufacturing World collaboration earns 2024 Champion in Action Award

Published:

January 22, 2025

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Madison College's regional campuses were honored with the 2024 Champion in Action Award for promoting manufacturing training and careers to young people at Mini Manufacturing World.

This prestigious award, presented by the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin (WDBSCW) celebrates employers and leaders excelling in fostering and driving innovative workforce solutions.

Madison College was among nine outstanding partners acknowledged for their collaborative efforts in advancing the K-12 career pathways strategy.

“For over 30 years, the Workforce Development Board has celebrated the contributions of workforce partners and leaders who go the extra mile to build strong workforce solutions,” said Seth Lentz, Executive Director for WDBSCW. “This year’s awardees are driving workforce innovation, creating new strategies, and leading with fresh initiatives. Their efforts inspire the next generation of innovators, creators, and leaders in this vital industry.”

Mini Manufacturing World event with student participants cutting a ribbon during the event. — Mini Manufacturing World introduces young people to exciting manufacturing career opportunities.

Student participants in Mini Manufacturing World event at the Portage campus pose for a photo. — Mini Manufacturing World students work together, operating their own fictional company by stepping into the different roles needed for a successful business. The one-day program helps students experience hands-on industry experience by “manufacturing” customizable Lego sets and managing simulated situations that pop up in the real workplace.

The next generation

The Mini Manufacturing World inspires and engages the next generation of workers with hands-on learning opportunities and valuable insights into exciting manufacturing careers.

Madison College's Portage Campus welcomed the first of three Mini Manufacturing World sessions last fall with 50 Portage High School sophomores. This dynamic collaboration emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, inviting students to explore manufacturing career paths. The Mini-Manufacturing World is so successful it will expand to the Reedsburg, Wisconsin Dells, and Sauk Prairie School Districts.

“Madison College's regional campuses are proud to receive this award, which highlights our commitment to promoting careers in manufacturing, exploring educational and career pathways, and enhancing awareness of regional opportunities," said Shawna Marquardt, Dean of Regional Campuses at Madison College. "We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin and our area manufacturers."

Read more about the Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin 2024 Champion in Action Award.

The next Mini Manufacturing World sessions are on March 18, March 20, and April 2 at the Portage campus. Contact Madison College-Portage campus at portageoffice@madisoncollege.edu or 608-745-3100, for more information.