MATC Gap Year Experience to Begin January 2022, Applications Now Open

New Program to Offer Paid Hands-On Career Exploration for 25 Students

Ginny Gnadt, Public Relations Coordinator, gnadtv@MATC.EDU

September 20, 2021

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Area Technical College and NEWaukee are proud to announce that applications are now open for the MATC Gap Year program. The new program will provide an alternative educational experience for 25 high school graduates who are taking a gap year before continuing their education.

Participating students will be led through a curated program that will include MATC hands-on career exploration, career exposure at local companies and networking development with peers. The program will take place on Thursdays from Jan. 20-March 24, 2022, followed by a year of career mentorship and special events to fuel participants’ ongoing inspiration.

Benefits of participation include complimentary transportation, complimentary lunch and snacks at every session, a participation stipend of $1,200, exclusive invites to events throughout the year, access to area employers and mentors, and MATC career readiness services.

“During these uncertain times, recent high school graduates may be evaluating all their options for success.  We are proud to offer this unique Gap Year opportunity in partnership with NEWaukee for those students who want more time to explore careers, discover their passion and connect to their community, ” said MATC President Dr. Vicki J. Martin. “This is an important option along the college-to-career path.”

Major contributors to the first year of the MATC Gap Year program include the Dohmen Company Foundation and Manpower. MATC is seeking additional funding to help scale the program. If you or your organization is interested in sponsoring the MATC Gap Year program, contact Laura Bray, MATC vice president, college advancement and external communications, braylm@matc.edu.

To be eligible to apply, applicants must live in the Milwaukee Area Technical College district, have graduated in 2020 or 2021 with a high school diploma, and have a demonstrated financial need as determined by household income not exceeding $75,000. Space is limited to 25 students. Students will be accepted based on the quality of their application. There is no cost to apply or participate. 

To apply, visit matc.edu/gapyear. Applications are due by midnight Oct. 31, 2021.


Milwaukee Area Technical College

Wisconsin’s largest technical college and one of the most diverse two-year institutions in the Midwest, Milwaukee Area Technical College is a key driver of southeastern Wisconsin’s economy and has provided innovative education in the region since 1912. Nearly 35,000 students per year attend the college’s four campuses and community-based sites or learn online. MATC offers affordable and accessible education and training opportunities that empower and transform lives in the community. The college offers more than 150 academic programs; and transfer options leading to bachelor’s degrees with more than 35 four-year colleges and universities. Overwhelmingly, MATC graduates build careers and businesses in southeastern Wisconsin. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

NEWaukee

NEWaukee is an agency with over a decade of experience in helping organizations create transformational programming and brand engagement. To learn more, visit www.newaukee.com.