Waukesha Metal Products recognizes that talent will be a key differentiator in the future growth of our organization and in the growth of American manufacturing overall. WMP has made a commitment to develop talent by promoting manufacturing to younger generations through youth apprenticeship programs, internships, Second Chance and co-op programs. These programs introduce manufacturing to individuals and provide them with opportunities that may lead to rewarding careers in manufacturing. This summer WMP has hired a number of youths; six in total between fabrication and stamping. We also have two Tool Room apprentices. Our goal is to expand these programs over the next few years, developing a defined program that will promote the industry and fill the pipeline with young talent who will continue the manufacturing tradition in Wisconsin. So what are these programs about? Wisconsin’s Youth Apprenticeship program integrates school and work based learning to provide students in their junior and senior years with academic and occupational skills which will lead to both a high school diploma and a Certificate of Occupational Proficiency in a specific industry. For those going directly into the workforce from high school, entering a registered apprenticeship program, or enrolling in tech school or university in an occupationally related degree program, the one and two-year apprenticeships prepare students by providing on the job experience which gives them an advantage over their peers. The apprenticeship requires that students work a minimum of 900 hours within the two-year program and 450 hours in the one-year program. Students are encouraged to work full-time during the summer before senior year, if work is available. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, students are awarded a Certificate of Occupational Proficiency from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Graduates may be eligible to receive advanced standing or transcript credit at a local technical college or credit toward the admission requirements for the University of Wisconsin system (in selected programs). Manufacturing is critical to our economy. The programs that we have committed to are just a start; we will work to continue to meet the talent requirements necessary for a manufacturing career while helping WMP sustain economic growth in the future. – Michael Steger
Talent
