Sydnee Smith knew that she wanted to start a career in construction, and with the help of WRTP | BIG STEP and FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET), that path was within her reach.
Equus, the FSET provider for Racine County, referred Sydnee to WRTP | BIG STEP for training. She enrolled in our Highway Construction Skills Training, a certified pre-apprenticeship program that prepares participants for careers with roadbuilding contractors.
“I loved that program,” Sydnee said. “My instructor, Steve, was the best. He got us ready for the job site and taught us how to be on time and ready to learn. He and Amber, the program coordinator, were great to have. I love Amber – if it wasn’t for her, I probably wouldn’t have the qualifications I needed.”
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation funds Highway Construction Skills Training, and Walbec, one of WisDOT’s contractors, actively engages with participants through mock interviews and job referrals.
“Dan Webster from Walbec came to my graduation and told me to do a job application online,” Sydnee said. “I got right in, and now I’m a quality control technician at Walbec.”
As a quality control technician, Sydnee tests laid asphalt to make sure the density is appropriate. It’s an important job that changed her life.
“I’m not struggling like I used to,” Sydnee said. “I don’t have to worry about paying my bills and having no money left. I’ve learned so much, and I always get hours and opportunities to grow.”
She advised anyone looking for a change to consider construction and WRTP | BIG STEP’s certified pre-apprenticeship programs.
“You learn different things to go into the career you want to, not just construction,” Sydnee said. “Just be willing to take the step, get up in the morning to go to class, and be willing to learn. Ask questions as needed, and you’ll get there.”
