Milwaukee Area Technical College and WRTP/BIG STEP launched the Milwaukee Skilled Trades Consortium Thursday, April 6, at MATC’s Education Center at Walker’s Square, 816 West National Ave.
MATC President Dr. Vicki J. Martin and WRTP/BIG STEP President and CEO Mark Kessenich explainedhow the partnership will benefit area residents and employers.
“We have partnered with great success on a number of initiatives with WRTP/BIG STEP and I know this new collaboration will have a positive impact on Greater Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin,” said Martin. “The construction projects across our region demonstrate the demand for trained professionals. This strengthened relationship will help ensure that residents have access to high-quality education and training and that employers have a skilled workforce.”
“This Open House celebration recognizes the expansion of the dynamic partnership between MATC & WRTP/BIG STEP in meeting Milwaukee areas industry needs for a skilled workforce,” said WRTP/BIG STEP President and CEO Mark Kessenich. “We are currently experiencing a boom in the construction trades, but also see a need to support and grow advanced manufacturing, including other skilled and technical careers – all of which require a higher skill level and understanding how to unite the job seeker with specific employer requirements.”
WRTP/BIG STEP, a nonprofit workforce intermediary dedicated to connecting individuals with family-sustaining career pathways in construction, manufacturing, and other emerging sectors, will staff an office at the Education Center at Walker’s Square, which also is home to the college’s appliance technician, bricklaying, carpentry and preparatory plumbing programs.