WRTP | BIG STEP
WRTP specializes in the development of hands-on, group-size pre-employment training certificate programs, while BIG STEP focuses on individualized tutoring in academic skills for apprenticeship exams. Explore the path that led the two organizations to join forces:
1967
Vince Toran, Wisconsin’s first Black building trades apprentice, is asked to work for the Labor Education Advancement Program (LEAP), a national pilot program designed to recruit, train, and place more minority and women candidates in skilled jobs.
1975
Project LEAP evolves into BIG STEP, the Building Industry Group Skilled Trades Employment Program. The BIG STEP organization becomes known as a place where people, particularly minorities, go to receive the necessary training for well-paid, prosperous careers.
1989
BIG STEP’s growth expands, thanks to regular contributions from Joint Apprenticeship Committees, Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Carpenters Union, Bricklayers Union, Sheet Metal Union, and Electricians Union.
1992
The Commission on a Quality Workforce recommends the development of partnerships between business, labor, and government to renew the industrial base in the Milwaukee area, and WRTP is born.
1997
WRTP receives funds from the Annie E. Casey Foundation to develop a model program in manufacturing training.
2000
WRTP is awarded a demonstration grant from the United States Department of Labor to replicate the program in other sectors of the nation.
2002
WRTP and BIG STEP partner to facilitate the effective coordination of employer-driven worker readiness, ensuring prospective workers gain the skills and experiences required by employers.
2003
The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation selects WRTP for a national Sector Employment Impact Study.
2005
Backed by the support of Governor Jim Doyle, WRTP | BIG STEP establishes the Center of Excellence (COE) for Skilled Trades & Industry.
2006
WRTP | BIG STEP moves into the historic building at 3841 W Wisconsin Avenue, known as the Center of Excellence.
2014
WRTP and BIG STEP formally merge their Boards of Directors as they cement themselves as a single organization.
2015
WRTP | BIG STEP opens its Madison office.
2018
The Racine office of WRTP | BIG STEP opens.
2024
WRTP | BIG STEP is granted funds from Ascendium Education Group to expand apprenticeship pathways on a statewide level.
2025
BIG STEP marks its 50th anniversary with a major renovation of its Milwaukee location, dedicating the training floor with a new name: the Vince Toran Training Center.
2025
WRTP | BIG STEP expands into northern Wisconsin, marking the start of serving communities statewide.