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6 | Transportation Today Wisconsin™ Online Edition: www.transportationtodaywi.com

Skill Improvement and Apprenticeship Fund

The training program offers a comprehen- Community outreach is another significant
sive approach that includes classroom instruction aspect of our apprenticeship program’s involve-
and hands-on experience. This format enables ment with the training initiative. We actively
apprentices to learn essential concepts such as participate in local career events aimed at raising
project safety, equipment operation, materi- awareness about career opportunities in the con-
als handling, and construction techniques. By struction industry. By engaging with schools
directly participating in real highway projects, and community organizations, we promote the
apprentices can apply their skills in practical importance of highway infrastructure and inspire
settings, solidifying their understanding and young individuals to consider apprenticeship as
building confidence. a viable and rewarding career path.
One of the striking features of our involve- As our apprenticeship program contin-
ment has been the emphasis on safety training. ues to evolve, we remain committed to helping
Given the potentially hazardous conditions our apprentices succeed in their careers while
involved in highway construction, we prioritize addressing the skilled labor shortage in highway
equipping apprentices with the knowledge and construction. The ongoing collaboration with the
tools to work safely. The program integrates Highway Construction Skills Training Program
comprehensive safety protocols into every enhances our ability to provide participants with
aspect of training, ensuring our apprentices the training, experience, and support they need
Operating Engineers 139 significantly to the infrastructure development value safety as a culture, not just a requirement. to thrive in a critical industry.
In today’s rapidly evolving construction of our communities. Moreover, the collaborative nature of the In conclusion, our apprenticeship program’s
industry, skilled labor is more essential than Our involvement in the Highway Con- apprenticeship program fosters an environ- involvement with the Highway Construction
ever. Recognizing this demand, our appren- struction Skills Training Program started with ment of mentorship. Experienced professionals Skills Training Program represents a powerful
ticeship program has actively engaged with a shared vision: to bridge the gap between edu- from the Highway Construction Skills Training partnership focused on fostering skilled labor for
the Highway Construction Skills Training cational training and real-world application in Program serve as trainers and mentors, guiding the future. Together, we are building not only the
Program to provide comprehensive training the highway construction sector. By collabo- apprentices through challenges and sharing infrastructure of our roads but also the future of
and development opportunities for the next rating on curriculum development and training invaluable insights from their own careers. our workforce — one apprentice at a time. We
generation of construction workers. This sessions, we’ve ensured that our apprentices This mentorship not only enriches the train- are excited about the impact this collaboration
partnership has not only enhanced our appren- receive industry-relevant skills that are crucial ing experience but also helps apprentices build will continue to have on our apprentices, our
ticeship offerings but has also contributed for success in construction jobs, particularly in professional networks and develop crucial soft communities, and the construction industry as a
highway projects. skills like teamwork and communication. whole.

High School Students Take a Trip to the Wisconsin Operating Engineers Training Center!

Elcho School District Kiel Area School District
Three of our high school students traveled Several students from Kiel High school
to Coloma to the Wisconsin Operating Engi- visited the The WI Operating Engineers
neers Training Center with Mr. Goeks to learn training center in Coloma WI, to learn about
about careers in the field and apprenticeship careers in heavy equipment operation . While
opportunities. This was a great opportunity for there they got to play with big kid toys in the
our students who are interested in becoming big kids sandbox . Who says learning isn't fun.
heavy equipment operators after high school!

www.elcho.k12.wi.us

The Wisconsin Operating Engineers take training very seriously. Our well-equipped
training facility in Coloma, WI is a tremendous resource for union members wanting to pick
up new skills or brush up on the latest developments in areas like Telescopic Crane Opera-
tion, Directional Boring, Excavator Operation, and much more. It’s also a great opportunity
for workers with little to no experience to get a running start on their career. In addition to
training, we also take our apprentices’ time seriously by providing them with a generous and
consistently rising hourly wage while they train.
For more information go to https://139training.org www.kiel.k12.wi.us