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 Whitmoyer, 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.
She advised anyone looking for a change to consider construction and WRTP | BIG STEP’s certified pre-apprenticeship programs.
“I’m thankful to Dan Webster and Walbec for changing the trajectory of my professional future by giving me a chance to be a part of their team,” Sydnee said. “I’ve learned so much, and I always get hours and opportunities to grow.”
